Swiss nightclub owners allegedly fled and removed evidence after fatal New Year’s fire

Authorities say a New Year’s Eve fire at Le Constellation in Crans‑Montana killed 40 people and left more than 100 injured; the club’s owners are under criminal investigation and are accused of removing online content and, according to witnesses, one of them carrying the cash register as people fled. Undetermined at this time.

A fire at the Le Constellation nightclub in Crans‑Montana on New Year’s Eve killed 40 people and left many others injured. The blaze is reported to have started during celebrations when sparklers attached to champagne bottles ignited the ceiling. The venue’s owners, a French couple who have run the club since 2015, are under criminal investigation. Investigators are reviewing video and online material to reconstruct events. Reported details: - The fire is reported to have begun around 1:30 a.m. on New Year’s Day. - Authorities say 40 people died and more than 100 were injured. - The owners are under investigation for manslaughter and causing bodily harm; witnesses reportedly saw the manager carrying the cash register as the fire spread. - The club’s Facebook and Instagram accounts and its website were taken offline in the hours after the blaze, and prosecutors are reviewing cellphone footage and security camera video. - Local officials acknowledged the venue had not had a safety inspection since 2019, and some lawyers have urged investigators to examine the role of the local council. Summary: The event has prompted a criminal inquiry into the club’s management and a review of digital and camera evidence. Lawyers for victims have called for a broader probe of local authorities, and prosecutors are continuing investigative work; further legal steps are undetermined at this time.