In a deeply distressing development in the investigation into the catastrophic New Year’s Eve fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Swiss authorities are scrutinizing heartbreaking final messages from victim Charlotte Niddam, a 22-year-old French tourist, who pleaded for help from her mother as flames engulfed the venue and her only escape route was blocked.

The blaze, which erupted shortly after 1:30 a.m. on January 1 during packed celebrations, claimed around 40 lives and injured over 115, many critically. Preliminary findings point to sparklers igniting foam soundproofing, causing a rapid inferno that trapped hundreds inside the low-ceilinged bar.

Niddam, from Lyon, was among those unable to flee. Phone records and messages recovered reveal her desperate texts and calls to her mother in the final minutes: “Mum, there’s fire everywhere… I can’t get out… the door is blocked…” according to leaked details reported by Swiss media. Her pleas — sent as smoke filled the room and panic surged — have become a focal point for investigators probing potential safety failures.

Authorities confirmed Niddam’s position near a rear exit that was allegedly obstructed by furniture or overcrowding, preventing escape. “Her only viable route was blocked,” a police spokesperson said. “This is one of several factors under urgent review.”

The tragedy has been described as one of Switzerland’s worst in decades, with President Guy Parmelin declaring national mourning. Forensic teams continue examining the site, focusing on fire spread, exit accessibility, and capacity limits. Witnesses reported “catastrophic” crowd surges and doors that wouldn’t open outward, exacerbating the death toll.

Niddam’s family, devastated by the loss, has called for accountability. “Charlotte was full of life — studying, travelling, dreaming,” her mother told reporters through tears. “She sent those messages begging for help, and no one could reach her.”

As identification processes continue amid the grim task of DNA matching for burned remains, Niddam’s pleas highlight the human horror. Survivors describe “hell on earth,” with flames spreading in seconds and exits jammed.

The investigation, involving federal and cantonal authorities, is examining venue compliance, emergency protocols, and the use of flammable materials. Early reports suggest the bar exceeded capacity and lacked adequate fire suppression.

Crans-Montana, a glamorous ski resort, mourns alongside victims’ families from Switzerland, France, Italy, and beyond. Vigils with candles and messages of solidarity have formed, while calls grow for stricter nightlife regulations.

Charlotte Niddam’s final words — a daughter’s desperate call to her mother — echo as a haunting reminder of lives cut short in celebration turned catastrophe. As Switzerland grieves, her pleas fuel demands for answers and change.