Swiss Bar Inferno: A Mother’s Plea for Truth and the Long Road to Justice
The owners of the Swiss bar Le Constellation, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, faced intense questioning from lawyers representing victims of the devastating New Year’s Eve fire that claimed 41 lives and injured 115 others. The hearings, taking place in Sion, Switzerland, represent a crucial step in the ongoing investigation and the pursuit of accountability.
A Private Encounter: Seeking Understanding Amidst Grief
Leila Micheloud, whose two daughters were among the victims, requested a private meeting with the Morettis during a break in the proceedings. Her lawyer, Sébastien Fanti, described the encounter as “extremely intense and humanely rare,” emphasizing a desire for truth and understanding. This meeting underscores the profound human cost of the tragedy and the victims’ need for closure.
Focus on Safety and Responsibility
Lawyers for the civil parties are focusing their questions on safety protocols, the number of people present in the bar during the fire, and the potential sale of alcohol to minors. The investigation is likewise examining the roles of current and former security officials for Crans-Montana. The public prosecutor’s office has issued numerous ordinances and mandates, conducted over a dozen auditions, and requested international commissions to gather evidence.
The Scale of the Investigation
The inquiry is a massive undertaking, with a dossier comprising nearly 2,000 pages and over 8,500 physical pieces of evidence. Representing the victims are 74 lawyers acting for 263 civil parties. The investigation revealed the fire was sparked by sparks from “fontaine” candles igniting soundproofing foam on the ceiling.
Challenges and Delays
According to one lawyer, Didier Elsig, a key challenge is that individuals are attempting to deflect blame. However, he expressed confidence that the investigation will ultimately reveal the truth. The commune of Crans-Montana has already acknowledged that fire safety checks had not been conducted at the bar since 2019, despite being required annually.
The Road Ahead: Auditions and Legal Scrutiny
Jessica Moretti is scheduled to be questioned on Thursday. The current and former security officials are also expected to be re-interviewed. The goal of these hearings is to allow lawyers to address questions that were not fully answered in previous testimonies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire at Le Constellation?
The fire was caused by sparks from candles igniting soundproofing foam.
How many people were affected by the fire?
41 people died, and 115 were injured.
What are the Morettis’ current legal status?
They were initially placed in preventative detention but have since been released on bail and are subject to certain restrictions.
If you’ve been affected by this tragedy or are seeking support, please reach out to relevant victim support organizations. Stay informed about the ongoing investigation and the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families.
