Charlotte Niddam, a 15-year-old former British schoolgirl, has been officially identified as one of the 40 victims of the tragic fire that erupted at the Crans-Montana ski resort’s Constellation bar in Switzerland on New Year’s Day, January 1, 2026. The fire occurred in the early hours of the new year, during celebrations that drew many revelers. Alongside the fatalities, at least 119 people sustained injuries.
Initially reported missing, Charlotte’s family confirmed her passing in a heartfelt social media announcement on January 4, expressing their deep sorrow. A funeral for Charlotte is planned to take place in Paris later this week.
Charlotte was a student at Immanuel College in Hertfordshire. The school released a statement expressing their hope and prayers for her recovery soon after the incident occurred. According to Crans-Montana’s resort website, Charlotte had been working locally as a babysitter.
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Authorities in the Valais region confirmed that all 40 victims of the fire have now been identified. The tragic loss included nationals from Switzerland, France, Italy, Portugal, Belgium, the United Kingdom, and Israel.
Investigations are underway to scrutinize the safety protocols of the venue. Officials are examining the presence and condition of fire extinguishers, availability and accessibility of escape routes, and are closely reviewing whether the soundproofing materials used on the ceiling met fire safety standards.
The diverse group of casualties included two 15-year-old Swiss girls, a 22-year-old Swiss woman, women and men from neighboring countries including France and Italy ranging in age from teenagers to young adults, and a young woman holding multiple nationalities including British, French, and Israeli.
As authorities continue their inquiry, they emphasize the importance of enforcing strict fire safety regulations to prevent such devastating tragedies in the future.