Jacques and Jessica Moretti, owners of Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, have been charged with manslaughter by negligence and other offences after the New Year fire
The married couple who run the establishment where at least 40 people died in the Swiss New Year blaze have reportedly been hit with charges including manslaughter by negligence, bodily harm by negligence, and arson by negligence.
Authorities revealed on Saturday afternoon (January 3) that a criminal probe had been launched against Jacques and Jessica Moretti on Friday evening (Januart 2).
Valais Police stated: “Investigation Opened Against Managers of ‘Le Constellation’ Bar. The initial findings of the investigation launched following the fire that occurred on January 1, 2026, at the ‘Le Constellation’ bar in Crans-Montana have led to the opening of a criminal investigation against the establishment’s two managers.”
The announcement followed Mr Moretti’s first public appearance since the tragedy, during which he declined to respond to reporters’ questions, reports the Mirror.
Just before the decision became public knowledge, the 49-year-old was photographed departing his residence in the company of a woman thought to be his spouse Jessica, 40.
When asked if he could pull over for a brief chat whilst behind the wheel of his white Jaguar SUV, he replied: “No.”
Being charged by Swiss authorities carries a different meaning than in the UK, essentially signifying they are now formally under investigation as part of a police inquiry.
In their latest statement detailing the charges, officers confirmed: “The fire, which broke out during the night of January 1, 2026, claimed the lives of 40 people and injured 119, the majority of whom suffered serious injuries.
“Following the initial investigations, conducted under the direction of the Public Prosecutor’s Office of the Canton of Valais, a criminal investigation was opened last night against the two bar managers.
“They are charged with manslaughter by negligence, bodily harm by negligence, and arson by negligence.
“It is important to remember that the presumption of innocence applies until a final conviction is pronounced.”
It has previously emerged that Mr and Mrs Moretti had been questioned by police as “people called to give information”, rather than under caution. They have faced scrutiny over alleged safety failures within the establishment.
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