The municipality of Crans-Montana has formally acknowledged that it failed to meet its safety oversight obligations at the bar Le Constellation, confirming that the venue was not subjected to adequate safety inspections for five years prior to the deadly fire.
The admission comes five days after the blaze that claimed the lives of 40 people and left 116 others injured, marking one of the deadliest fires in Switzerland in recent years.
In a statement released by municipal authorities, officials recognized shortcomings in inspection procedures and oversight mechanisms. While investigations into the exact causes of the fire remain ongoing, the acknowledgment places a renewed focus on regulatory enforcement and public safety responsibilities.
Le Constellation, located in a resort town known for attracting large numbers of visitors, was operating in an environment where strict safety controls are considered essential. Nightlife venues, in particular, require regular checks due to high occupancy, limited lighting, and elevated fire risks.
Municipal representatives confirmed that inspection schedules were not adequately followed over a prolonged period. Authorities did not provide immediate details regarding how the lapse occurred but stated that internal reviews are underway.
Emergency responders were dispatched rapidly on the night of the fire, but the scale and speed of the blaze left little room for intervention. Survivors described heavy smoke, confusion, and difficulty navigating exits as the situation deteriorated.
In the days following the tragedy, public scrutiny intensified around safety measures, inspection records, and accountability at multiple levels. The municipality’s acknowledgment has been viewed by some as a first step toward transparency, while others have called for broader institutional reviews.
Legal experts note that an admission of oversight failure does not in itself determine criminal or civil liability. Separate judicial investigations will assess responsibilities, compliance with regulations, and potential consequences.
Authorities emphasized that identifying victims, supporting families, and caring for the injured remain immediate priorities. Counseling services and community support initiatives have been expanded in response to the disaster.
Crans-Montana’s status as a major tourist destination adds urgency to the review process. Officials stated that additional inspections of similar venues are being conducted to ensure compliance with safety standards.
As investigations continue, questions remain about how inspection systems functioned, why gaps persisted, and what reforms are necessary to prevent future tragedies.
For now, the municipality has pledged cooperation with investigators and committed to strengthening oversight procedures. The coming weeks are expected to bring further findings as authorities work to establish a complete and accurate account of events.
