Swiss Authorities Probe French Owners Following Fatal Crans-Montana Fire

Swiss prosecutors are actively looking into the French owners of 'Le Constellation' bar in Crans-Montana, Valais, amid allegations of multiple offenses, including negligent homicide. Victims' families have lodged their own legal complaints following the tragic incident.

Jacques Moretti, one of the owners, has been detained amid fears he might flee, as reported by anonymous sources. The Valais police have refrained from direct comment, directing all questions to the prosecutor’s office, which has not yet released an official statement.

Both Jacques and Jessica Moretti chose not to speak to the media as they arrived at the prosecutor’s office in Sion. In solidarity with the victims, Friday has been declared a national day of mourning in Switzerland.

The owners have expressed profound regret over the tragedy and are committed to fully assisting with the ongoing inquiry. The fire resulted in numerous fatalities, with over half being teenagers. Additionally, 116 individuals sustained injuries, many of them serious. Among the deceased were nationals from both France and Italy. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has called for rigorous accountability for those at fault.

Italian President Sergio Mattarella and French President Emmanuel Macron joined Swiss officials, families, and firefighters in Martigny for a solemn memorial service. A moment of silence was held to honor the deceased.

In Crans-Montana, mourners gathered near the shuttered bar, paying their respects amidst falling snow. Hundreds of heartfelt letters, teddy bears, and floral tributes were meticulously placed beneath an igloo structure for protection from the elements.

Swiss President Guy Parmelin reminded attendees in Martigny that those responsible must be held accountable promptly and without leniency. Mathias Reynard, head of the Valais government, echoed that political leaders with any culpability must also face consequences.

In Rome, Meloni expressed her support for the families affected by the tragedy and is contemplating a ban on indoor sparklers. She criticized those who neglected their responsibilities, claiming, "This tragedy occurred because too many turned a blind eye or prioritized profit over safety. The responsible parties must be identified and punished."

Witnesses and prosecutors suggest the fire likely started when sparklers ignited foam soundproofing on the basement ceiling, and the local mayor has acknowledged that the bar failed several safety inspections.

Initially, prosecutors indicated that conditions for detaining the owners had not yet been established, but the investigation is progressing. On January 6, the owners expressed their heartbreak and condolences for the victims and those still battling for survival.