Pope Leo XIV has expressed his profound grief and offered prayers following a devastating New Year's Eve fire at a Swiss nightclub that killed at least 40 people and left more than 100 injured.
Papal Condolences for a National Tragedy
In a telegram sent on Friday 2 January 2026, the pontiff conveyed his 'compassion and solidarity' to the families of the victims. The message, signed by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, was addressed to the Bishop of Sion in Switzerland.
'His holiness Pope Leo XIV joins in the mourning of the families and of the entire Swiss confederation,' the telegram stated. It added that the Pope was praying for the deceased to be welcomed into 'his dwelling place of peace and light.'
Investigation Points to Deadly Cause
The horrific blaze tore through the crowded Le Constellation bar in the popular ski resort of Crans-Montana. Swiss investigators provided a crucial update, indicating they believe the fire was ignited by sparklers in Champagne bottles held too close to the ceiling.
Authorities stated their primary focus is now on the difficult task of identifying the 40 victims so their families can begin the grieving process. In addition to the fatalities, 119 other revellers, many aged from their teens to mid-20s, were injured and taken to hospitals across Switzerland.
Community Mourning and International Victims
The local community has been plunged into mourning. Late on Thursday, mourners created an impromptu memorial near the charred nightclub, leaving candles and flowers. Hundreds also attended a prayer service for the victims at the nearby Church of Montana-Station.
The tragedy has an international dimension, with several Italian nationals among the casualties. Italy's Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, confirmed that by midday Friday, 13 Italian citizens were injured and six remained missing.
One of those missing is Emanuele Galeppini, a promising 17-year-old Italian golfer who competed internationally. His family is awaiting DNA checks, though the Italian Golf Federation has already announced his death on its website.
Pope's Solemn Start to 2026
The Pope's message of condolence comes just a day after he opened the new year with a plea for peace, specifically mentioning countries 'bloodied by conflict'. He celebrated New Year's Day Mass in St. Peter's Basilica before delivering a special noontime prayer.
Pope Leo XIV is now expected to take a few days of rest before presiding over the Church's Epiphany holiday on 6 January, which will also mark the official close of the 2025 Holy Year.
