Switzerland observed a solemn national day of mourning to honor the 40 lives lost in the tragic ski bar fire on New Year's Day. The fire, which occurred at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, also left 116 individuals injured. Authorities have pinpointed the cause of the fire to sparkling candles on champagne bottles, which came into contact with the ceiling. The severity of the burns made victim identification challenging, necessitating DNA samples from families. Swiss police have successfully identified all 40 victims, with many being in their teens to mid-20s. The country came together in remembrance, with people lighting candles, laying flowers, and following a live-streamed national ceremony. The Swiss President, Guy Parmelin, emphasized the nation's shock and grief, offering support to those still recovering. Criminal investigations are underway against the bar owners, a French couple, for suspected involuntary homicide, bodily harm, and fire-related offenses. The authorities are also probing fire safety violations and the use of candles in the bar. Italy has initiated a separate investigation, with the Prime Minister emphasizing the need for accountability and justice. An autopsy has been ordered for Italian victims, and the Paris prosecutor's office is assisting the Swiss investigation to facilitate communication between families and Swiss investigators.
