Authorities in the Swiss canton of Valais have confirmed that Jacques Moretti, the co-owner of the popular Le Constellation bar in the luxury ski resort of Crans-Montana, has been remanded in custody. The move follows the catastrophic fire on New Year’s Eve that resulted in the deaths of 40 people, marking one of the deadliest building fires in Swiss history.
Moretti and his wife, Jessica, both French nationals, were brought in for questioning by Swiss prosecutors late last week. While Jessica Moretti was reportedly released under certain conditions, Jacques Moretti remains behind bars. Prosecutors cited him as a potential flight risk, arguing that his ties to France and the severity of the charges he could face necessitated his continued detention.
The Night of the Tragedy
The fire broke out shortly before midnight on December 31, 2025, during a sold-out New Year’s Eve celebration. Le Constellation, known for its panoramic views and wooden chalet-style architecture, was packed with international tourists and locals. Witnesses described a scene of absolute chaos as flames quickly engulfed the timber-heavy structure.
Initial reports suggest the fire may have started near a pyrotechnic display or a heating unit, though official forensic results are still pending. The speed at which the fire spread has raised urgent questions regarding the building’s compliance with fire safety regulations. Of the 40 victims, many were identified as young professionals from across Europe who had traveled to the Alps for the holiday season.
Legal and Forensic Investigations
The Swiss Public Prosecutor's Office has opened a criminal investigation into "homicide by negligence" and "culpable fire-raising." Investigators are currently scrutinizing the bar's safety records, specifically focusing on whether the venue exceeded its legal capacity on the night of the incident.
Reports from local media, including Swiss broadcaster RTS, suggest that several emergency exits may have been obstructed or locked to prevent "gate-crashing" during the ticketed event. If proven, this would significantly escalate the legal liability of the owners.
| Key Investigation Milestone | Status/Details |
|---|---|
| Cause of Ignition | Under forensic analysis (Suspected pyrotechnics) |
| Occupancy Levels | Estimated 200% of legal capacity |
| Building Permits | Reviewing 2023 renovation documents |
| Custody Status | Jacques Moretti detained; Jessica Moretti released |
"The scale of this tragedy is unprecedented for our region," said a spokesperson for the Valais cantonal police. "Our priority is to provide answers to the families of the victims. This requires a meticulous reconstruction of the events, which is hampered by the total destruction of the site."
A Community in Mourning
The resort town of Crans-Montana, usually a vibrant hub for winter sports enthusiasts, has been plunged into a state of somber reflection. A makeshift memorial has grown at the base of the mountain road leading to the site of the bar, with flowers, candles, and photographs of the deceased.
The disaster has also sparked a nationwide debate in Switzerland regarding the oversight of "Après-ski" venues. Critics argue that many older establishments, constructed primarily of wood and located in remote alpine areas, are not held to the same rigorous modern fire standards as urban hotels or nightclubs.
International Implications
Because many of the victims were non-Swiss citizens—including nationals from the UK, France, Germany, and Italy—the investigation has drawn international scrutiny. Consular officials have been working closely with Swiss authorities to facilitate the repatriation of remains, a process that has been slowed by the need for DNA identification in several cases.
For the Moretti family, the legal road ahead appears arduous. Jacques Moretti’s legal counsel has denied any criminal intent, stating that the owners are "devastated" by the loss of life and are cooperating fully with the prosecutor's office. However, the decision to keep Moretti in custody suggests that the prosecution believes there is a strong prima facie case of negligence.
As Crans-Montana attempts to return to a semblance of normalcy for the remainder of the ski season, the charred remains of Le Constellation serve as a stark reminder of the New Year's Eve that turned into a national tragedy.
