GENEVA — A Swiss court has granted bail to Jacques Moretti, one of the proprietors of Le Constellation bar in the Alpine resort of Crans-Montana, where a devastating fire during New Year’s celebrations resulted in 40 fatalities and over 100 injuries. The Valais regional court’s decision on Friday reversed its earlier ruling from January 12th that had imposed a three-month pretrial detention.
The court determined that alternative measures would sufficiently address flight risk concerns. Moretti must remain within Swiss borders, surrender his identity documents to prosecutors, and report daily to local authorities. The court set bail at 200,000 Swiss francs (approximately $252,000), which has been paid in full.
Swiss prosecutors have initiated criminal proceedings against both Jacques Moretti and his wife Jessica, co-owners of the establishment. They face charges including negligent homicide, negligent bodily harm, and causing a fire through negligence.
Preliminary investigations indicate the blaze originated from sparkling candles that ignited soundproofing material on the ceiling. Authorities are examining whether the acoustic insulation complied with safety regulations and if the candles were legally permitted for use within the venue. Local officials have confirmed that no fire safety inspections had been conducted at the bar since 2019.
Legal representatives for the couple issued a statement affirming their clients’ continued cooperation with investigative authorities and expressing that their ‘constant thoughts remain with the victims of this tragedy.’