CRANS-MONTANA,Switzerland – A New Year’s Day fire at the “Le Constellation” bar in the Swiss Alps claimed 40 lives,and authorities have now detained one of the bar’s owners due to concerns he may flee the contry. The tragedy has prompted a wave of grief and questions about safety regulations at the popular ski resort.
Owners Under Scrutiny as Investigation Intensifies
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Families of the victims have filed legal complaints amid scrutiny of the bar’s safety record.
- Swiss prosecutors have ordered Jacques Moretti,one of the French owners of Le Constellation,to be held in custody.
- The fire, which occurred on January 1, resulted in the deaths of 40 people and injured 116 others.
- Investigators are focusing on the potential role of sparkling candles in igniting flammable soundproofing material.
- A national day of mourning was observed in Switzerland on Friday, with ceremonies held across the country.
Prosecutors are investigating both Jacques and jessica Moretti on suspicion of crimes including homicide by negligence. Shortly after entering the prosecutors’ office in Sion for questioning on Friday, video footage broadcast by Swiss broadcaster RTS showed Jessica Moretti leaving alone.
“My thoughts are constantly with the victims of this unimaginable tragedy that took place in our establishment, and I would like to apologise to all the victims and those who are still struggling today,” Jessica Moretti stated, according to reports.
A Nation Mourns
Friday was designated a national day of mourning in Switzerland, with church bells tolling across the country in remembrance of the victims.Italian President Sergio Mattarella and French President Emmanuel Macron joined swiss leaders, victims’ families, and firefighters at a ceremony in Martigny, where a minute of silence was observed. Attendees carried white roses as a symbol of mourning.
In Crans-Montana, dozens of people gathered near the closed bar, heads bowed in silence under falling snow. Hundreds of letters, teddy bears, and floral tributes were placed beneath a protective igloo, a poignant display of grief and solidarity.
Investigation Focuses on Candles and Safety Oversight
Witnesses and investigators believe the fire was likely started by sparkling candles that ignited foam soundproofing in the basement.The local mayor acknowledged this week that the bar had missed multiple safety checks, raising further questions about oversight.
More than half of those who died in the blaze were teenagers, and a significant number of the 116 injured suffered serious injuries. several French and Italian citizens were among the deceased, prompting a call from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for those responsible to be punished severely.
Under Swiss law, Jacques Moretti will be held in custody pending a court decision within 48 hours regarding the justification for his continued detention. The Valais police have declined to provide further comment.
