Swiss Prosecutors Question Bar Owners After New Year’s Blaze Kills 40

Swiss prosecutors on Friday summoned the owners of a ski resort bar where a devastating fire during New Year’s celebrations claimed 40 lives, amid mounting public criticism over their continued freedom. Authorities are investigating the French owners, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, on suspicion of offences including homicide by negligence following the blaze at the “Le Constellation” bar in Crans-Montana.

The couple arrived for questioning at the prosecutor’s office in Sion on a day declared a national day of mourning in Switzerland, but declined to comment to the media. More than half of those killed were teenagers, and at least 116 people were injured, many seriously. In an earlier statement, the Morettis said they were devastated by the tragedy and pledged full cooperation with investigators.

Prosecutors said the legal grounds for detaining the couple have not yet been met. Investigators believe the fire may have started when sparkling candles ignited foam soundproofing on the bar’s basement ceiling. Scrutiny has also intensified over safety oversight, with the local mayor acknowledging missed inspections. Victims included nationals from Switzerland, France and Italy, and leaders from France and Italy were expected to attend a memorial ceremony to honour the dead.

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