URGENT UPDATE: A devastating fire at the Swiss ski bar, Le Constellation, on New Year’s Eve may be linked to the same highly flammable insulation foam used in the Grenfell Tower disaster. Former firefighting commander Steve Dudney claims the polyurethane foam ignited rapidly, leading to catastrophic flames that swept through the venue.
Authorities report that the fire broke out around 11:30 PM on January 1, 2026, during a celebration at the popular Crans-Montana location. Eyewitness videos reveal flames quickly engulfing the ceiling’s foam padding, raising urgent questions about fire safety regulations at the bar.
Dudney, who served in the fire service for over three decades, highlighted the dangers of the foam, stating, “It should be nowhere where there are uncontrolled naked flames.” He noted that when ignited, polyurethane foam can produce “liquid fire,” with burning droplets falling onto anything below, creating a deadly scenario for patrons.
Investigators suspect that the fire was sparked by a sparkler attached to a champagne bottle, as footage shows celebratory moments turning into chaos when the foam ignited. Beatrice Pilloud, the attorney general for the Valais region, confirmed that the ongoing investigation is focusing on the materials used in the bar’s construction, including the foam that fueled the flames.
The tragic incident echoes the Grenfell Tower fire in June 2017, which resulted in 72 fatalities. The cladding used in Grenfell, known as Aluminium Composite Material (ACM), failed fire safety tests for years. The foam insulation behind the cladding, also a type of polyurethane, played a critical role in the rapid spread of the Grenfell fire.
Pilloud stated, “We are also looking at what materials were used. The issue of emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and the bar’s occupancy is also being investigated.” There is a possibility that the owners, Jacques Moretti and his wife Jessica, may face criminal charges for negligent homicide.
In a statement to Swiss media, Mr. Moretti expressed the couple’s profound distress, saying they have been unable to “sleep nor eat” since the tragedy. They maintain that all safety regulations were adhered to and that the bar had been inspected multiple times over the last decade. “We will do everything we can to help clarify the causes,” he added.
The investigation is expected to involve a team of 30 officials, prioritizing the identification of victims to assist families in their grieving process. As of now, officials have not confirmed any criminal liability for the Morettis, but they have been questioned by authorities.
Authorities are working diligently to address the community’s concerns as flowers and candles have been laid outside the bar in memory of the victims. The tragic events have raised critical questions about fire safety standards in public venues, especially those using similar materials to Grenfell Tower.
As investigations continue, the situation remains fluid. Updates will follow as more information becomes available.
