Switzerland Detains Co-Owner of Bar Where 40 Died in New Year’s Eve Blaze
Swiss authorities have detained Jacques Moretti, a co-owner of the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, where a devastating fire claimed the lives of 40 people on New Year’s Eve. The detention follows concerns that Moretti, a French national, could flee as investigations intensify into the tragic incident.
Why It Matters
The deadly fire at the popular ski resort bar has raised serious questions about safety regulations and adherence to fire codes in public venues. With numerous young victims and significant injuries reported, the incident highlights the need for stricter oversight to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The ongoing investigation into the bar’s owners may set precedents for accountability in the hospitality sector.
Key Developments
- Jacques Moretti has been detained amid flight risk concerns.
- 116 individuals sustained injuries from the fire, with many victims under the age of 20.
- Swiss prosecutors are investigating Moretti and his wife, Jessica, for several charges, including manslaughter by negligence.
- The fire is believed to have initiated when celebrators lit sparklers attached to champagne bottles, igniting sound insulation in the basement.
- A national day of mourning was observed in Switzerland, with a minute of silence and church bells ringing in memory of the victims.
Full Report
Detention of Co-Owner
Jacques Moretti, a co-owner of Le Constellation along with his wife Jessica, has been placed under criminal investigation by the Valais prosecutors’ office. He is suspected of manslaughter by negligence, bodily harm by negligence, and arson by negligence. Authorities indicated that he may pose a flight risk, leading to his detention.
Incident Details
The fire, which occurred during New Year’s celebrations, resulted in significant casualties, with 40 confirmed dead and 116 others injured. Initial reports suggest that the blaze ignited when revelers used sparklers with champagne, setting fire to foam insulation on the bar’s ceiling.
Safety Violations
Further complicating the case, it was revealed that Le Constellation had not completed safety inspections for five years prior to the incident, raising critical concerns about regulatory compliance within the hospitality industry.
National Mourning
In response to the tragedy, Switzerland held a national day of mourning. Citizens participated in a minute of silence, and church bells were rung across the country for five minutes. Local commemorations in Crans-Montana included a standing ovation for the brave firefighters who responded to the emergency.
Context & Previous Events
Prior to this incident, there had been no reported safety evaluations or checks at Le Constellation for half a decade. The events of New Year’s Eve have spurred a nationwide conversation about public event safety and regulatory enforcement.
