Heart-Wrenching Mass in Memory of Swiss Bar Fire Victims

Tue Jan 06 2026 08:32:10 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

An emotional gathering at St Christopher's Church honors victims of the devastating fire at Le Constellation bar, as families grieve and search for justice.

In a poignant tribute, hundreds attended a Sunday Mass at St Christopher's Church to remember the victims of the New Year's Eve fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans Montana, Switzerland. The event was filled with raw emotions as families mourned loved ones lost and struggled with the reality of injuries and deaths following the tragedy. The investigation into the fire has opened questions surrounding negligence and safety standards at the bar, as the community grapples with their grief.

In the snow-dusted street outside St Christopher's Church, hundreds joined a special Sunday Mass for the victims of the fire that tore through Le Constellation bar on New Year's Eve.

Many hugged each other, crying quietly, as they remembered the dozens killed and those still in hospital with severe burns, fighting for their lives.

During the service, several in the crowd fainted and fell to the ground, overcome.

Police say more than 20 of the dead have now been identified, although not named publicly. Their bodies are being returned to their families, some of whom who had been holding on to the hope their children might yet be found - injured, but alive.

They're now receiving the worst possible news.

Laetitia Brodard, whose teenage son Arthur died in the fire, was comforted by friends at the memorial service. He died that first day, Laetitia confirmed to media. In an emotional statement on Facebook, she expressed that Arthur had gone to party in paradise.

The victims' bodies were so badly burned by the fire they are difficult to identify. For forensic experts, this necessitates the use of DNA samples and dental records, rendering the wait for families agonizing.

The bar, which was packed with young revelers, witnessed survivors described horrific scenes as they attempted to escape. A criminal investigation has now been opened against the bar's French owners, suspected of causing arson and bodily harm through negligence.

As investigators probe the cause, issues such as compliance with safety regulations will be scrutinized, amidst the heartbreak felt by the community and the search for justice.