A co-owner of a Swiss ski resort bar where 40 people died in a New Year’s Eve fire has been detained as prosecutors pursue criminal charges linked to negligence.
Swiss prosecutors in the canton of Valais said Jacques Moretti, a French national who co-owns Le Constellation with his wife Jessica Moretti, is being held because he was considered a potential flight risk.
What charges prosecutors are investigating
According to reports, prosecutors say Jacques and Jessica Moretti are suspected of manslaughter by negligence, bodily harm by negligence and arson by negligence.
Under Swiss law, a person held in custody during an investigation must have their detention reviewed by a court within 48 hours.
What investigators believe caused the fire
Authorities believe the fire began during celebrations when champagne bottles with sparklers were raised too close to the ceiling, setting light to sound-insulating foam in the basement bar.
The blaze killed 40 people and left 116 injured, with many victims reported to be under the age of 20.
Safety checks now under scrutiny
The case has intensified scrutiny of safety oversight in the resort after it emerged the venue had not undergone safety checks for five years, despite expectations that venues of this type should be inspected annually.
Crans-Montana’s mayor, Nicolas Feraud, said he could not explain why inspections had not taken place for so long at the bar and said sparklers would be banned in local venues.
National mourning and public reaction
Switzerland has held a national day of mourning for the victims, including a minute’s silence, with transport disruptions and commemorations reported in multiple locations.
Prosecutors are continuing their investigation, while the detained co-owner awaits a court decision on custody and the next procedural steps.
The co-owners have said they are devastated and have pledged full cooperation with the investigation.
