The proprietor of a Swiss bar where numerous individuals perished in a fire on New Year’s Eve has been apprehended. Jacques Moretti, the operator of Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, where 40 individuals tragically lost their lives in a devastating blaze, has been taken into custody following orders from Swiss authorities.
Previously free after the tragic incident eight days ago, Moretti, aged 49, is now in custody due to concerns of flight risk pending potential charges. His wife, Jessica Moretti, aged 40, is also under investigation. The couple, both French nationals, are facing charges of negligence leading to manslaughter, bodily harm, and arson in connection to the event that claimed the lives of 40 individuals, mostly teenagers, and injured 116 others.
Prosecutors held a closed-door session on Friday to question the Morettis regarding the fire at their establishment in Crans-Montana. Meanwhile, Switzerland observed a national day of mourning for the victims and the injured.
The Morettis were escorted by police to the prosecutor’s office in Sion, the capital of Valais, where they declined to provide comments upon arrival. The fire, one of Switzerland’s deadliest, resulted from sparklers igniting highly flammable acoustic foam, causing a rapid spread of fire.
Following the hearing, Mr. Moretti was detained due to flight risk concerns, while his wife was allowed to remain free. The victims of the tragedy, aged between 14 and 39, included Charlotte Niddam, a British-educated individual. Legal representatives for the victims advocated for the couple’s pre-trial detention.
Authorities are investigating the renovation work conducted in 2015, alleging insufficient safety standards, and are examining the use of fire safety equipment and emergency exits. The bar’s compliance with regulations is also under scrutiny.
The Tribune de Genève newspaper reported that Mr. Moretti claimed the bar had passed inspections multiple times in the past decade and operated within legal standards. The Morettis own two other establishments in Crans-Montana and Lens.
Families of the victims have lodged legal complaints with the Swiss prosecutor’s office, with each family joining as plaintiffs in the proceedings. Police are exploring all aspects related to the tragedy to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents in the future.