Swiss officials say ski resort fire appeared to start from sparkler candles | Full news conference

Press Conference Summary: Valet Fire Tragedy – January 2nd, 2026

Key Concepts:

• Flashover: A rapid, full-room fire where all combustible materials ignite simultaneously.
• DVI (Disaster Victim Identification): A specialized organization utilizing forensic science to identify victims of mass casualty events, adhering to Interpol standards.
• Anti-mortem & Post-mortem Data: Information collected before death (anti-mortem – fingerprints, DNA from relatives) and after death (post-mortem – body examination) for identification purposes.
• Evasan: Swiss organization responsible for coordinating medical evacuations.
• Major Health Event Protocol: Pre-defined procedures activated during large-scale emergencies to mobilize resources and coordinate response.
• Formal Identification: The definitive process of identifying a victim, involving multiple verification steps and international collaboration.

I. Initial Statements & Condolences

The press conference, led by representatives from the Valet Council of State and health services, began with expressions of deep condolences to the victims, injured, and their families. Officials acknowledged the immense suffering and emphasized the ongoing efforts to save lives, support those affected, and identify the deceased. Solidarity was highlighted, with support offered and received from neighboring cantons, the Swiss Confederation (President’s visit, flags at half-mast order from Mr. Parmala), France (Minister of Health assurances, specialist doctors, patient transfers), and Italy (Foreign Minister visit, care offers, patient transfers). The tragedy was framed as not only a loss for Valet but for Switzerland and Europe as a whole. A memorial ceremony is planned for January 9th, 2026, in K Montana, and an online book of condolences will be available on the Swiss Federation website.

II. Emergency Response & Medical Care

The Valet Continental Police Service detailed their immediate response, prioritizing identifying victims and informing families. As of the conference, 119 people were injured, with 113 formally identified. Nationalities identified included 71 Swiss, 14 French, 11 Italian, 4 Serbian, 1 Bosnian, 1 Belgian, 1 Luxembourgish, 1 Polish, and 1 Portuguese. The nationality of 14 victims remains unknown. Tragically, 40 people are confirmed dead, with formal identification ongoing. Approximately 50 patients have been or will be transferred to specialist burn treatment centers across Europe. The emergency services activated the “major health event protocol” and mobilized significant resources, including ambulances (40, 20 from neighboring VO canton), helicopters (13, including international support from France and Italy), and 150 emergency health workers. Valley Hospital received 55 casualties, with 13 discharged, 11 remaining, and 28 transferred. Four patients at Valley Hospital are in critical condition. The hospital emphasized its staff’s dedication, with personnel foregoing holidays to provide support. Psychological support is being provided to patients, families, and first responders.

III. Investigation Findings & Legal Aspects

The Attorney General of the Valet Canton announced a full investigation into the circumstances of the fire. Preliminary findings suggest the fire originated from sparkler candles (flares) placed on top of champagne bottles, igniting nearby soundproofing foam, leading to a “flashover” incident. Interviews have been conducted with the two French managers of the bar and witnesses. The investigation will focus on renovation work, licensing arrangements, safety equipment (fire extinguishers, emergency exits), and the bar’s capacity. The Forensic Institute of Zurich is involved, and potential criminal liability (negligence leading to fire, homicide, injuries) is being considered. The investigation is collaborating with authorities in France, Belgium, Poland, Portugal, Congo, Philippines, Serbia, Turkey, and Romania. The landlords were interviewed as witnesses and have not been restricted from leaving Switzerland at this time, unless evidence suggests a flight risk.

IV. Victim Identification Process

Leftenant Colonel Lingan detailed the rigorous victim identification process, utilizing the DVI (Disaster Victim Identification) organization and adhering to Interpol standards. The process involves collecting anti-mortem (fingerprints, DNA from relatives) and post-mortem data, creating files, and validating matches through an information commission comprised of government authorities and coroners. The process is complex and time-consuming, prioritizing accuracy to avoid misidentification and provide closure to families. Support from Swiss registrars’ offices is being provided to assist families with necessary formalities.

V. Security & Safety Measures

Security priorities include supporting families (both Swiss and foreign), identifying victims, and determining the incident’s circumstances. The Valet Canton is receiving support from federal policing and the Zurich Forensic Institute. Police are providing ongoing support to families, including psychological assistance. Medical transfers are being coordinated with the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs. Emphasis was placed on supporting first responders and neighbors who assisted during the emergency.

VI. Hospital Operations & Staff Support

The hospital director detailed the hospital’s response, highlighting the challenges of managing a surge in patients during a busy holiday period. The Seion site, a specialist trauma center, was utilized effectively. The hospital emphasized the importance of maintaining a calm and quiet environment for patients and families, setting boundaries with the media. Staff demonstrated exceptional solidarity, with personnel volunteering to cover shifts. Ongoing psychological support is being provided to both staff and patients. The hospital is prioritizing transferring patients to specialized burn care facilities, both within Switzerland and internationally, while also considering proximity to family support.

VII. Concluding Remarks & Data Caveats

Officials reiterated the evolving nature of the situation and cautioned against relying on preliminary figures, as identification and data collection are ongoing. They expressed gratitude for the widespread solidarity and support received from various agencies and countries. The conference concluded with a commitment to transparency and continued updates as the investigation progresses.

Data & Statistics Mentioned:

• 119: Total number of injured people.
• 40: Confirmed number of fatalities.
• 71: Number of Swiss nationals injured.
• 14: Number of French nationals injured.
• 11: Number of Italian nationals injured.
• 50: Approximate number of patients transferred to European specialist burn centers.
• 13: Number of helicopters involved in the emergency response.
• 150: Number of emergency health workers mobilized.
• 55: Number of casualties initially treated at Valley Hospital.
• 13: Number of patients discharged from Valley Hospital.
• 11: Number of patients remaining at Valley Hospital.
• 28: Number of patients transferred from Valley Hospital.
• 4: Number of patients in critical condition at Valley Hospital.

Notable Quotes:

• “This tragedy for Valet is also a tragedy for Switzerland and for the whole of Europe.” – State Councilor
• “The whole of humanity has taken on a role from our teams that have worked in an unprecedented manner to care for the victims.” – State Councilor
• “We are determined to provide the best possible support during this period of uncertainty and suffering.” – Police Commander
• “There is no space for any mistakes in this in this field.” – Leftenant Colonel Lingan (regarding victim identification)
• “The priority today is still to identify the victims in order to enable the families to start their mourning.” – Attorney General.