The hypothesis regarding the origin of the fire that destroyed a bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans Montana on New Year’s Eve is that it was started by fireworks placed in champagne bottles, according to prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud. The blaze resulted in at least 40 fatalities and 119 injuries, among whom are several Italians. The Attorney General of the canton of Valais stated at a press conference that these fireworks «got too close to the ceiling, which ignited rapidly and extensively.» Italy’s Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, called for clarity on the circumstances surrounding the fire while in Crans Montana. Tajani stated that something has gone wrong and that it will be the responsibility of the judicial system to conduct the investigation and determine who is accountable. He described the use of fireworks in a bar as «irresponsible.» The minister and Italian vice president explained that cooperation is «constructive,» but cautioned that seeking the truth is «essential.» When questioned about the videos available online, which show the use of flares in the bar and the start of the fire, Tajani expressed that it is «very irresponsible.» He remarked that using fireworks in such an establishment is a poorly considered decision.
