A criminal investigation is ‍underway in Switzerland following a New Year’s Eve incident⁢ that resulted in forty fatalities and 119 injuries. Teh valais Public Prosecutor’s Office opened the investigation on Friday, less than 48 hours after the ​event, focusing on the two⁢ managers of the bar where the tragedy occurred.

Managers Face Negligence charges

The two managers, both French citizens, are accused of homicide, ⁤bodily harm, and arson,‍ all stemming from alleged negligence. Each charge ‍carries a potential sentence of up too three years in prison, with a maximum combined penalty of four and a half years.It is important to note that, as with all legal proceedings, the managers are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

According⁣ to a spokesperson for the cantonal⁤ police, the managers have not been ⁣placed in pre-trial‌ detention and ‍are not currently restricted from ‍leaving Switzerland.

Critical Condition for Many ​Injured

The prognosis for the‌ majority ‌of the 119 individuals injured in the incident remains uncertain as they receive treatment in swiss and European hospitals. The ​severity of the injuries suggests a prolonged recovery period for many.

International Pressure for Accountability

Swiss President Guy Parmelin‌ pledged a full and transparent‌ investigation ‍into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy on Thursday. ‌This commitment came amid increasing pressure from neighboring Italy, which has a critically important ‍number of citizens affected by the⁣ incident.

Italian Foreign Minister ​Antonio Tajani, while at ⁤the scene of the tragedy, called for a clear determination⁢ of responsibility. Deputy ⁣Prime Minister Matteo Salvini further emphasized the need for accountability, stating on social media that those responsible should face imprisonment in Switzerland.