Fireworks on champagne bottles caused Swiss fire killing 40
Investigators confirmed that fireworks attached to champagne bottles ignited the ceiling in the Crans-Montana tragedy, as dozens of burn victims are airlifted to Germany.
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WISE NEWS PRESS / CRANS-MONTANA, SWITZERLAND — JAN. 3, 2026
Swiss authorities confirmed on Friday that the deadly New Year's Eve fire in the ski resort of Crans-Montana, which claimed at least 40 lives, was ignited by fireworks attached to champagne bottles. As the investigation proceeds, a massive medical evacuation operation is underway to transfer critically injured survivors to specialized burn centers across Europe.
Valais Public Prosecutor Béatrice Pilloud announced the findings at a press conference, stating that "all evidence indicates the fire started when fountain-type fireworks placed on champagne bottles were ignited too close to the ceiling paneling." Investigators reached this conclusion after reviewing video footage and interviewing witnesses.
'Sparks ignited the ceiling'
The tragedy unfolded at a popular entertainment venue where patrons were celebrating the arrival of 2026. According to Prosecutor Pilloud, the pyrotechnics, often used in weddings and nightlife, set the flammable ceiling ablaze instantly. Social media footage reviewed by police reportedly shows waitstaff carrying bottles with the lit fireworks moments before the panic ensued.
Authorities have identified 113 of the 119 injured survivors so far. The victims include 71 Swiss nationals, 14 French, 11 Italians, and 4 Serbians. However, identifying the 40 deceased victims remains a slow process due to the severity of the burns.
Medical airlift to Germany
With local hospitals overwhelmed by the complexity of the injuries, an international medical bridge has been established. Valais Council of State President Mathias Reynard announced that 50 patients in critical condition are being transferred to specialized clinics in Germany, France, and Italy.
Germany has taken a lead role in the medical response. Prof. Dr. Leila Harhaus-Wähner, Director of the Severe Burn Clinic at the Berlin Accident Hospital, confirmed to Welt TV that they have received requests to treat 40 patients.
"As of now, we have received requests for help for 40 patients with severe burns," Harhaus-Wähner said. The first patients have already arrived at clinics in Leipzig and Halle, with three more scheduled to arrive in Berlin on Saturday.
Long road to recovery
Experts warn that the survivors face a grueling recovery process. Prof. Dr. Harhaus-Wähner emphasized that rapid intervention is vital to save organs such as the lungs and kidneys from failing in the first 48 hours.
"Sometimes there is not enough of the patient's own skin available to use directly, so procedures must be done in several stages," she explained. "Multiple operations are usually the rule. We are talking about several weeks of intensive care, followed by weeks in a normal ward, and finally a rehabilitation process."
Despite the grim prognosis, medical teams are hopeful that the relatively young age of the victims will aid in their survival. "Young age provides a significantly higher probability of survival compared to older patients," Harhaus-Wähner noted.
Meanwhile, Pope Leo XIV sent a telegram of condolence on Friday, expressing deep sorrow and offering comfort to the families of the victims ahead of an ecumenical funeral service scheduled for Sunday in Crans-Montana.
