Swiss bar owners detained as investigation into deadly New Year fire continues

On the night of 1 January 2025, the Le Constellation bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans‑Montana erupted in flames while a New Year’s Eve party was underway. The blaze, ignited by exploding sparkler‑candles and sound‑proof foam, caused 40 deaths and injured 116 people, most of them teenagers. In January 2026, Swiss prosecutors detained co‑owners Jacques and Jessica Moretti. Valais chief prosecutor Beatrice Pilloud said Mr Moretti was held in pre‑trial detention for a flight risk, while Mrs Moretti was placed under house arrest. The case follows an inquiry that uncovered missing annual inspections since 2019 and prompted a national day of mourning attended by President Emmanuel Macron.