UPDATE: The tragic fire at the Crans-Montana ski resort in Switzerland has claimed the life of 15-year-old Charlotte Niddam, confirmed as one of the 40 victims in this devastating incident on January 1, 2026. The fire erupted during New Year celebrations at the Constellation bar, injuring a further 119 individuals as people gathered to ring in the new year.
Charlotte, a former pupil at Immanuel College in Hertfordshire, was reported missing after the blaze. Her family heartbreakingly confirmed her passing on social media, stating, “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beautiful daughter and sister Charlotte.” Her funeral is expected to take place in Paris later this week, according to reports from the Manchester Evening News.
Authorities in the Valais region confirmed that all 40 fatalities have been identified, encompassing victims from various nationalities including Swiss, French, Italian, Portuguese, Belgian, British, and Israeli. The final group of victims identified included a mix of young adults and teenagers, underscoring the profound tragedy of this incident.
As investigations continue, officials are prioritizing a review of safety measures at the resort, including the adequacy of fire extinguishers and escape routes. The Valais regional police have also announced they will investigate whether the sound-absorbing material used on the ceiling complied with safety regulations, raising concerns about building safety in public venues.
Charlotte was employed as a childminder in the area, and her school community is mourning the loss. Immanuel College expressed hope for a miracle following the tragedy, emphasizing the impact on students and families.
This devastating event highlights the urgent need for rigorous safety standards in public spaces. As authorities move forward with their investigations, many are left reflecting on the human cost of this disaster and the lives forever changed.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
