Post by : Meena Ariff

A tragic fire broke out Thursday morning in a busy ski bar in Crans-Montana, a well-known Swiss Alpine resort, resulting in the deaths of 40 people and leaving many others severely injured. Officials believe the blaze was triggered by sparklers held close to a low ceiling covered in flammable foam material.

Footage captured by partygoers shows sparklers inserted into champagne bottles being waved near the foam ceiling, which quickly caught fire. Despite the growing flames, many inside the basement bar remained unaware and continued celebrating, unaware of the imminent danger.

Panic broke out when the fire spread, with scenes of chaos as people desperately tried to escape. Videos reveal frantic attempts to break windows and flee, while some burned victims managed to run into the streets seeking help.

Authorities confirmed that while 119 people survived, most were in critical condition, suffering from serious burns and smoke inhalation. Local hospitals were overwhelmed, prompting the transfer of several patients to specialized burn units in neighboring European countries.

The owner of the bar, Jacques Moretti, who has operated the venue since 2015, insisted that all safety measures were in place. However, investigators are examining whether safety regulations were properly followed and enforced.

The total number of people inside at the time of the fire remains uncertain. The bar’s official capacity was 300 people indoors, with an additional 40 on the terrace. Victims include nationals from Switzerland, France, Italy, Serbia, Belgium, and several other countries. Identification of the deceased and injured is ongoing.

The Crans-Montana community has been left deeply shaken by the disaster. Witnesses described harrowing scenes of people severely burned and crying out in pain, calling the event catastrophic for the resort town. Authorities have warned it may take days to identify all victims fully, as families anxiously await news.

#Sports News