Fire safety inspections had not been conducted since 2019 at Le Constellation, the Swiss bar where a New Year’s party fire killed 40 people and injured over 100, authorities said Tuesday.

Investigators believe the blaze was triggered by sparkling candles on Champagne bottles that came too close to the ceiling. Authorities are examining whether ceiling soundproofing met regulations and if the candles were allowed. A criminal investigation has been launched against the bar’s two managers for involuntary homicide, bodily harm, and causing a fire, the Valais chief prosecutor said.

Crans-Montana municipality said fire safety checks were carried out in 2016, 2018, and 2019, with modifications requested, but no issues were raised regarding soundproofing. Municipal head Nicolas Féraud said inspections were not done between 2020 and 2025, a lapse he described as “bitterly regrettable.”

Severe burns complicated victim identification, requiring DNA samples. Investigators confirmed all 40 deceased and 116 injured, including nine French citizens, have been identified. The Paris prosecutor’s office opened a probe to support the Swiss investigation.

Authorities noted the bar’s capacity was 100 on the ground floor and 100 in the basement, though the exact number present during the fire remains unknown. Following the tragedy, the municipality banned indoor fireworks and will commission external agencies to inspect similar venues.