A devastating New Year’s fire at the Constellation bar in the Swiss alpine resort of Crans-Montana, which claimed 40 lives and injured 116 others, has taken a serious legal turn as co-owner Jacques Moretti faces criminal charges. Judicial authorities have placed Moretti in custody while investigating allegations of negligent homicide, negligent bodily harm, and negligent arson.
According to investigative documents obtained by French and Swiss media outlets and confirmed by sources close to the case, Moretti disclosed to Valais public prosecutors that a critical service door had been locked from the interior during the catastrophic incident. The bar owner stated that upon arriving at the scene, he was forced to physically breach the obstructed exit.
The tragedy, which predominantly affected teenage victims, apparently originated when celebratory sparklers ignited soundproofing foam installed on the basement ceiling. Moretti, who personally purchased and installed the acoustic foam during 2015 renovations, maintained to investigators that he had conducted safety tests indicating the sparklers were insufficiently powerful to ignite the material.
Further scrutiny has emerged regarding the establishment’s compliance with safety protocols. Investigators are examining whether fire extinguishers were properly maintained and readily accessible, and if emergency exits met regulatory standards. Additionally, questions have surfaced about the presence of numerous underage patrons despite establishment policies prohibiting entry to those under 16 and requiring adult accompaniment for 16-18 year-olds.
Moretti acknowledged that while he provided these age restriction instructions to security staff, a ‘lapse in protocol’ might have occurred. His wife and co-owner Jessica, who was released following Friday’s hearing, noted that sparkler candles were routinely added to bottle service in the dining area.
The investigation continues as Swiss authorities work to determine the complete sequence of events and accountability for one of Switzerland’s deadliest nightlife disasters in recent history.