The Latest Breaking News from Guy Parmelin

Switzerland has been left "devastated" by the deadly Crans-Montana bar fire that killed 40 people celebrating the New Year, President Guy Parmelin told a national service of remembrance on Friday. Meanwhile Frenchman Jacques Moretti, co-owner of the bar Le Constellation, where the tragedy took place, was taken into custody.

All 40 people killed in a fire on New Year’s eve at a Swiss mountain resort bar have been identified, including nine French citizens. Switzerland has declared a national day of mourning as a criminal investigation continues.

The blaze at Le Constellation, killing at least 40 people and injuring about 115 others, many seriously, was likely started by sparklers in champagne bottles, authorities said on Friday afternoon, as identification of those killed and injured continued.

Switzerland mourns after a fatal Crans Montana fire as President Guy Parmelin describes the disaster as one of the worst tragedies the nation has faced.

The fire broke out at about 1.30am at Le Constellation bar in the south-western Swiss resort, as revellers were celebrating the New Year

Blaze that swept through crowded New Year’s Eve bar in Crans-Montana also injured 115 people

New year party at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana turned into tragedy as flames shot across the ceiling

Crowds had gathered to celebrate the new year when the bar was engulfed in flames

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