The proprietors of the Swiss bar, where a tragic fire claimed the lives of 40 individuals on New Year’s, have been receiving police protection, as recent reports have unveiled. Jacques Moretti and his wife Jessica have been granted security measures due to escalating public outrage following the catastrophic incident that resulted in the death of 20 children, some as young as 14, and left 116 others wounded. Jean Moretti, Jacques’ father, confirmed the protective arrangements while standing by his son and daughter-in-law, who are facing charges related to the incident.
Expressing his perspective, Jean stated, “While my son holds responsibility as the business owner, his culpability is yet to be determined. Ultimately, we will abide by the judicial process and fulfill our obligations without evasion.” He emphasized their integrity, stating, “We are law-abiding citizens, not offenders. Jacques, my son, is steadfast and will not evade accountability. Our thoughts are with the victims, as we, too, have experienced personal losses and grieve daily, affecting our rest.”
Jacques Moretti was detained pending trial subsequent to questioning by prosecutors, while his spouse Jessica, aged 40, was also interrogated but later released. At the Public Prosecutors Office in Sion, where the couple underwent questioning, Mrs. Moretti expressed her sorrow, stating, “My heartfelt condolences go out to the victims and all those impacted by this ongoing struggle. This unforeseeable tragedy within our establishment is deeply regrettable, and I extend my sincere apologies.”
On a national day of mourning in Switzerland, nine days post the fatal fire incident that claimed 40 lives, including 20 young individuals aged as low as 14, at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Mrs. Moretti conveyed her remorse. In an earlier statement, the couple had conveyed their devastation and pledged full cooperation, emphasizing their continuous thoughts for the victims and their families deeply affected by the untimely tragedy.
Authorities suspect the fire originated in the bar’s basement due to champagne bottles with attached party sparklers being brought too close to sound insulation foam on the ceiling, potentially causing a rapid spread of flames. Investigations are ongoing, focusing on the responsibilities of both the bar owners and the authorities, with admissions that fire safety inspections had not been carried out at the bar since 2019. The casualties and injured individuals represented 19 different nationalities, with 83 victims still hospitalized.
During an official memorial service, young survivors emotionally recounted their experiences, moving dignitaries and attendees. The survivors highlighted the nightmarish turn of events at the bar, underscoring the traumatic scenes and the overwhelming atmosphere of chaos and despair. The survivors applauded the emergency services and medical staff, acknowledging their dedication and support during the crisis. A moment of silence was observed nationwide in memory of the victims, with church bells tolling for five minutes across the country.
Addressing the mourners, President of the Valais State Council Mathias Reynard expressed solidarity and remembrance for the 40 souls lost in the tragic incident, pledging ongoing support and commemoration for the deceased.