Swiss Investigation Unfolds into French Owners of Crans-Montana Bar

Post by : Mina Rahman

Swiss authorities have launched an investigation into the French proprietors of the ‘Le Constellation’ bar in Crans-Montana, Valais, suspecting them of serious offenses, including negligent homicide. In the wake of the devastating fire, families of the victims have filed legal actions.

Jacques Moretti, one of the owners, is currently in custody amid fears he might flee, according to unnamed sources. Valais police have refrained from offering comments, directing inquiries to the prosecutor’s office, which has not yet released an official statement.

On Friday, Jacques and Jessica Moretti remained tight-lipped as they appeared at the prosecutor’s office in Sion. This Friday has been designated a national day of mourning in Switzerland to honor the victims.

The couple has expressed profound remorse over the tragedy and has pledged full cooperation with ongoing investigations. The fire resulted in the loss of many lives, with over half being teenagers. A total of 116 individuals sustained injuries, with many in critical condition. Among those who perished were citizens from both France and Italy. Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is calling for stringent justice against those accountable.

Both Italian President Sergio Mattarella and French President Emmanuel Macron came together with Swiss officials, victim families, and firefighters in Martigny for a somber ceremony, observing a minute of silence to honor the deceased.

In Crans-Montana, mourners quietly gathered near the now-closed bar, bowing their heads in heavy snowfall. An igloo structure was erected to protect flowers, teddy bears, and heartfelt letters left in tribute.

Swiss President Guy Parmelin emphasized at the Martigny gathering that those responsible must face swift and relentless consequences. Valais official Mathias Reynard added that political figures bearing any responsibility should also face accountability.

In Rome, Meloni has pledged support for the families of the Italian victims and is contemplating a ban on indoor sparkler use in Italy. She has heavily criticized the negligence of responsible parties, stating, "This tragedy occurred because too many neglected their responsibilities or pursued easy profits. We must identify and punish the guilty parties."

Witness testimony and prosecutors suggest that the fire potentially ignited from sparklers affecting foam soundproofing on the basement ceiling. The local mayor has acknowledged that the bar had repeatedly failed safety inspections.

While prosecutors previously mentioned that conditions for detaining the owners had not yet been fulfilled, the investigation remains active. On January 6, the owners expressed profound grief and sympathy for the victims and those still fighting for their lives.