UPDATE: A devastating fire at the Swiss ski bar Le Constellation on New Year’s Eve is drawing alarming comparisons to the Grenfell Tower tragedy. Former fire commander Steve Dudney claims that the bar utilized the same highly flammable polyurethane (PU) insulation foam linked to the deadly 2017 London fire that claimed 72 lives.
Footage from the Crans-Montana nightclub shows flames rapidly engulfing soundproofing foam attached to the ceiling, igniting during a festive celebration. Authorities are investigating the incident, with initial reports suggesting a sparkler from a champagne bottle may have triggered the inferno.
Dudney, who served for over three decades in the fire service, stated, “It should be nowhere where there are uncontrolled naked flames.” He explained that PU can ignite easily and melt into “liquid fire,” creating a dangerous rain of burning droplets. The rapid spread of flames in Le Constellation has raised urgent questions regarding safety regulations and material use in public venues.
Swiss prosecutors, led by attorney general Beatrice Pilloud, have confirmed that the foam is a focal point of the ongoing investigation. “We assume that the fire originated from sparklers attached to champagne bottles. From there, the ceiling caught fire,” Pilloud stated, adding that emergency exit protocols and occupancy limits are also under scrutiny.
The owners of Le Constellation, French couple Jacques and Jessica Moretti, are reportedly cooperating with authorities. Jessica suffered burns during the incident, and Jacques expressed their devastation, claiming they have adhered to all safety regulations. “Everything had been done according to regulation,” he insisted, noting the bar had undergone three inspections in the past decade.
As the investigation continues, authorities are prioritizing the identification of victims to aid grieving families. The emotional toll is evident, with flowers and candles placed outside the bar in memory of those affected. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as flames erupted, with many patrons struggling to escape.
Pilloud confirmed that while no criminal charges have yet been announced, the potential for negligent homicide charges remains as the investigation unfolds. A dedicated team of 30 officials is working to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the fire.
This tragic event echoes the Grenfell disaster, where similar insulation materials contributed to the rapid spread of flames, resulting in significant loss of life. As authorities continue to probe the safety practices at Le Constellation, the public is left to grapple with the implications of such materials in communal spaces.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops, with many questions still lingering about the safety of public venues and the materials used within them.
