Jacques Moretti, co-owner of the popular “Le Constellation” bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, was placed in pre-trial detention following a deadly fire that occurred during New Year celebrations, resulting in the tragic deaths of 40 individuals, predominantly teenagers. The fire also left 116 people injured. Moretti was detained after a hearing with prosecutors in Sion, as authorities continue their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the blaze.
The fire, which occurred early on January 1, 2026, is thought to have erupted around 1:30 a.m. local time. According to preliminary reports from the Cantonal Police of Valais, the cause of the fire remains “undetermined,” though the Valais attorney general indicated that investigators are exploring several potential scenarios. One hypothesis suggests the fire may have been ignited by sparklers that were affixed to champagne bottles, which might have come into contact with the ceiling.
Jacques Moretti’s wife, Jessica Moretti, who is also a business partner, attended the hearing but was not detained. She sustained burns to her arm during the incident and expressed her sorrow for the victims and their families. “My constant thoughts are with the victims and those who are fighting today. This is an unimaginable tragedy,” she told reporters outside the prosecutor’s office.
Concerns have been raised regarding safety regulations at the bar, as Swiss officials revealed that it had not undergone an inspection in over five years. Nicolas Féraud, the municipal chief of Crans-Montana, commented on the situation, asserting that a “culture of reckless risk-taking” appeared to have endangered both customers and staff. He also noted that the municipal government had not received any prior alerts regarding safety concerns at the bar.
Further complicating the investigation, Féraud confirmed there was an emergency exit located in the basement of the bar, but the current status of that exit—whether it was accessible or blocked—remains unclear.
The incident has highlighted significant issues regarding safety and regulatory oversight in nightlife venues, and authorities are keen on reviewing the events leading up to the tragedy to prevent such loss of life in the future.