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Constellation Nightclub Tragedy Investigation Widens
(Sion, 2026-01-30) – The investigation into the New Year’s Eve massacre at the Constellation nightclub in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, which left 40 people dead and 116 injured, is now focusing on potential failures by local authorities, including a prolonged absence of security checks.
Swiss prosecutors are widening the investigation to include two municipal officials amid scrutiny of safety oversight at the nightclub.
- The Sion prosecutor’s office is investigating the responsibilities of Christophe Balet, head of Crans-Montana’s public safety service, and his predecessor, Ken Jacquemoud.
- Investigators are examining whether the municipality adequately oversaw safety at the nightclub, noting that inspections of the location had not been carried out for five years, and that in 2025, only 40 of 128 public businesses in the locality were inspected.
- The focus on municipal officials comes as investigators also examine potential attempts to influence witnesses.
- Jacques Moretti, a key figure in the investigation, admitted to contacting staff after the fire and receiving instructions to limit interaction with former employees.
- A possible staff meeting took place on January 7th at the Six Senses hotel, raising concerns about potential coordination of testimony.
The Sion prosecutor’s office is examining whether the municipality adequately oversaw safety at the nightclub, noting that inspections of the location had not been carried out for five years, and that in 2025, only 40 of 128 public businesses in the locality were inspected.
The focus on municipal officials comes as investigators also examine potential attempts to influence witnesses. According to reporting by Corriere della Sera, Jacques Moretti initially denied maintaining contact with staff after the fire, then corrected his statement to admit he had spoken with his godson, Jean-Marc, and possibly others. Moretti also stated he had received instructions to limit communication with former employees.
This admission is central to the Swiss investigation of a potential “collusion risk,” the possibility that suspects interacted with individuals who could influence the investigation. Investigators are also looking into Moretti’s contacts with his wife,Jessica,who is also under investigation,and with other staff members,exploring the possibility of pressure or conditioning through messages or phone calls.
Reports indicate a possible meeting of staff from Le Constellation, Senso, and Vieux Chalet took place on January 7th at 4:30 pm at the Six Senses hotel.Moretti denies organizing or attending the meeting, but acknowledged being informed it occurred, stating, “Thay told me. And the cameras are still active in the premises.” A local source, who requested anonymity, claims Moretti
