• Swiss bar fire on New Year's Eve leads to 40 fatalities and over 100 injuries.
• Managers Jacques and Jessica Moretti face charges of negligent homicide and arson.
• Investigation focuses on safety compliance and potential negligence related to the fire's cause.
• Mass mourning events held for the victims with increasing community support.
• Authorities continue to identify victims and assess the tragedy's circumstances.

Swiss authorities have launched a criminal investigation into the managers of a bar in Crans-Montana where a devastating fire broke out during New Year's celebrations, resulting in the deaths of 40 individuals and injuries to 119 others, many seriously. The bar, Le Constellation, was packed with young revelers when the blaze ignited at around 1:30 AM on January 1, prompting immediate emergency responses, according to South China Morning Post and Al Jazeera.

The bar's managers, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, are facing charges that include manslaughter by negligence, bodily harm by negligence, and arson by negligence. Authorities suspect that the fire ignited due to sparklers attached to champagne bottles that were lifted too close to the ceiling, where they ignited soundproofing foam, according to reports from India Times and Channel News Asia.

As of now, authorities have confirmed 24 fatalities, including teenagers aged as young as 14, with ongoing efforts to identify the victims complicated by the severe nature of their injuries. National mourning was announced, with plans for memorial services in honor of the deceased, mentioned by CBS News and BBC.

The tragedy has profoundly affected the local community, with hundreds participating in memorial services and silent processions. Residents of Crans-Montana are rallying together to support families of the victims, emphasizing the importance of solidarity during this tragic time, highlighted by Reuters and Channel News Asia.

Many questions remain regarding the safety measures in place at the bar, and whether they complied with regulations. Investigators are looking into the use of highly flammable materials and the adequateness of fire escape routes, according to India Times and South China Morning Post.