Crans-Montana Fire Survivors Seek Recovery as Criminal Investigations Continue

The Ongoing Aftermath of the Crans-Montana Tragedy

The fire ignited at 1:26 a.m. on the night of the New Year’s Eve celebration when pyrotechnic fountains set fire to acoustic foam on the ceiling of the bar. David Vocat, the fire chief of the station, described the scene as “total chaos,noting that his teams facedscenes of war” with victims who were very gravely burned. Three days later, the population gathered for a silent march in tribute to the victims.

While the town has attempted to maintain its role as a destination for international sports, hosting World Cup Alpine skiing races four weeks after the fire, the atmosphere remained subdued. The Mont Lachaux slope finish area was stripped of its usual vibrant colors and advertising, replaced by black and white signs of mourning that read Our thoughts are with you in multiple languages.

Survivors Navigate Physical and Mental Recovery

For those who escaped, the road to recovery has been arduous. Bachar Fleury, 18, suffered second and third-degree burns on 40% of his body, including his hands, shoulders, and back, and required skin grafts. Fleury explained to the RTS that he sustained burns on the upper part of his body, covering 40% of his total surface area, including his hands, and that he required skin grafts on his left hand and both shoulders, while his entire back and one ear were also burned. Regarding his scars, he stated that he is very proud of them, considers them to be good marks, and believes they should be shown.

Tahirys Dos Santos, a 19-year-old lateral left player for FC Metz, was also among the survivors. Burned on 30% of his body after re-entering the building to retrieve his partner, Dos Santos signed his first one-year professional contract with the club in April 2026. Dos Santos said in a statement that he is very happy and proud to sign his first professional contract with the club where he trained.

Other survivors, such as 19-year-old Margot, who suffered second-degree burns, are receiving support through the association Revi Crans-Montana. Co-founded by her father, Hervé Abello, the association was established in the corridors of the hospital where parents of victims met daily. Abello noted that they were among the “lucky ones” who could quickly confirm his daughter was alive and identify the hospital to which she had been transferred.

Legal Proceedings and Institutional Scrutiny

The legal investigation has seen recent developments. On July 10, 2026, it was revealed that one of the three prosecutors assigned to the Le Constellation dossier had resigned, effective December 31, 2026, to pursue a new professional opportunity. The investigation will continue under the two remaining prosecutors, though it remains unconfirmed if a third will be appointed. Several lawyers involved in the case expressed astonishment at the resignation, as the departing prosecutor had been responsible for questioning the accused.

The leadership of the local police also underwent a major transition at the time of the disaster. Frédéric Gisler, who replaced Christian Varone as the commandant of the Valais police, took office on January 1, 2026—less than two hours before the fire broke out.

The Impact on First Responders

The tragedy has left a lasting impact on those who managed the emergency. David Vocat, who was seen at a ceremony of homage to the victims wearing his orange parka, has spoken openly about the consequences of that night on his life. The event remains a central point of reflection for the community and the authorities tasked with the ongoing judicial proceedings.

Sources: RTS.