Post by : Meena Ariff

Swiss prosecutors are currently investigating the French owners of the ‘Le Constellation’ bar in Crans-Montana, Valais, on suspicion of several crimes, including negligent homicide. Families of the victims have also filed legal complaints following the tragic fire.

Jacques Moretti, one half of the owner couple, has been placed in custody due to concerns he may flee, according to anonymous sources. Authorities from the Valais police declined to comment directly and referred inquiries to the prosecutor’s office, which has yet to issue an official statement.

Earlier on Friday, both Jacques and Jessica Moretti remained silent when questioned by reporters as they arrived at the prosecutor’s office in Sion. In Switzerland, Friday has been marked as a national day of mourning for the victims.

The owners expressed deep sorrow for the tragedy and promised full cooperation with the ongoing investigation. The fire claimed the lives of many, over half of whom were teenagers. Additionally, 116 people suffered injuries, many critically. Among the deceased were citizens from France and Italy. Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni demanded strict justice for those responsible.

Italian President Sergio Mattarella and French President Emmanuel Macron joined Swiss officials, families of the victims, and firefighters in Martigny for a solemn ceremony. A minute of silence was observed to honor those lost.

Nearby in Crans-Montana, crowds gathered silently near the closed bar, bowing their heads beneath heavy snowfall. Hundreds of letters, teddy bears, and floral tributes were placed beneath an igloo structure to protect them from the weather.

Swiss President Guy Parmelin emphasized at the Martigny event that those accountable must face consequences swiftly and without mercy. Valais government head Mathias Reynard added that political leaders with any responsibility must also be held accountable.

In Rome, Meloni vowed support for the families of Italian victims and is considering banning indoor use of sparklers in Italy. She criticized the failure of responsible parties, saying, "This tragedy happened because too many ignored their duties or sought easy profits. The guilty must be found and punished."

Witness accounts and prosecutors indicate the fire likely began when sparklers ignited foam soundproofing on the basement ceiling. The local mayor has admitted the bar failed multiple safety inspections.

Prosecutors previously stated that conditions to detain the owners had not yet been met, but the investigation is ongoing. On January 6, the owners released a statement expressing their devastation and sympathy for the victims and those still fighting for their lives.

#Global News