Swiss Bar Fire Investigation Widens: Mayor and Officials Face Criminal Charges
The investigation into the New Year’s Day fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, which resulted in 41 deaths and 115 injuries, has expanded to include five new individuals. Among those now facing criminal charges is Nicolas Féraud, the mayor of Crans-Montana.
The charges against Féraud and the others – Christophe Balet, the head of public safety for the municipality, and his predecessor Ken Jacquemoud – mirror those already leveled against Jacques and Jessica Moretti, the owners of the bar. All are accused of arson, manslaughter, and negligent injury.
Years of Neglected Safety Inspections
The mayor publicly acknowledged shortly after the tragedy that the municipality had failed to conduct proper safety inspections at the venue between 2020 and 2025. “The municipal council has noted that periodic inspections between 2020 and 2025 were not carried out in accordance with regulations, and I deeply regret this,” he stated, effectively opening the door to scrutiny regarding the lack of oversight.
Prosecutors allege that the negligence of the municipal administration under his leadership contributed to the disaster. The other newly indicted individuals – Kévin Barras, a council member with security responsibilities and current parliamentary deputy. Pierre Albéric Clivaz, Rudy Tissières, and Baptiste Cotter – all held past or present roles overseeing inspections in Crans and Chermignon, a municipality later annexed to Crans-Montana.
The Constellation Fire: A Timeline of Events
The fire broke out at Le Constellation, a popular bar in the Swiss Alps resort town, in the early hours of January 1, 2026. The blaze, of currently “undetermined origin,” quickly engulfed the venue, fueled by flammable materials like acoustic foam and ignited by sparks from decorative fountains. Forty people died, many of them young people, and 116 others were injured.
Jacques Moretti, the bar owner, was detained by prosecutors in January and placed in pre-trial detention. His wife and business partner, Jessica Moretti, attended the meeting with prosecutors but was not detained, though she sustained a burn injury during the fire. She expressed her devastation and concern for the victims and those injured.
Broader Implications for Venue Safety
This case highlights the critical importance of consistent and thorough safety inspections in public venues. The lack of oversight at Le Constellation, spanning five years, created a dangerous environment where fire hazards were allowed to accumulate. The incident raises questions about accountability and the potential for corruption, though the mayor has denied any wrongdoing.
The tragedy likewise underscores the need for clear emergency exit procedures and the proper maintenance of fire safety equipment. Reports indicate the presence of an emergency exit in the basement, but its accessibility during the fire remains unclear.
FAQ
What charges are the new suspects facing?
The new suspects are facing charges of arson, manslaughter, and negligent injury.
When were the last safety inspections conducted at Le Constellation?
Safety inspections were not conducted at Le Constellation between 2020 and 2025.
What is the current status of Jacques Moretti?
Jacques Moretti is currently in pre-trial detention.
What caused the fire at Le Constellation?
The origin of the fire is currently undetermined.
Did you know? The fire at Le Constellation resulted in the highest death toll from a single fire incident in Switzerland in decades.
Pro Tip: Regularly review and update your venue’s fire safety plan, and ensure all staff members are properly trained in emergency procedures.
If you are a venue owner or manager, consider a comprehensive safety audit to identify and address potential hazards. Learn from the tragic events in Crans-Montana and prioritize the safety of your patrons and staff.
Explore our other articles on venue safety regulations and fire prevention best practices for more information.
