Swiss authorities in Crans-Montana have revealed that the Constellation Bar, destroyed in a New Year’s fire that claimed 40 lives, had not undergone safety inspections for the past five years.

During a press conference, community president Nicola Féro admitted that no fire or safety checks had been carried out at the club since 2020. “We deeply regret this. We had no indication that inspections were not taking place,” he stated.

Investigators believe the fire likely started when sparks from fireworks ignited the bar’s soundproof synthetic ceiling panels, which accelerated the blaze. Annual fire inspections are required for local bars, and the last inspection in 2019 had found the club compliant. At that time, the synthetic ceiling was deemed acceptable, and a fire alarm was not mandatory due to the bar’s size.

Féro also confirmed that no separate checks were ever conducted on the foam ceiling material, which contributed to the rapid spread of the fire. In response, the municipality has banned spark-emitting candles in all local entertainment venues.

Authorities are investigating the bar owners for potential negligent crimes. While no arrests have been made, another bar owned by the same proprietors has been closed as a precaution.