Story perspectives

Swiss Bar Managers Charged After Deadly New Year’s Fire

1/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

Swiss authorities have launched a criminal investigation into Jacques Moretti and Jessica Moretti, managers of Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, after a New Year’s fire killed at least 40 people.
The couple face negligent-homicide and arson charges.
Investigators believe sparklers on champagne bottles ignited the fire near the ceiling.
Many victims were young, some as young as 16.
The investigation will examine safety measures, including fire extinguishers and escape routes.

History

Historical Context

The Cocoanut Grove fire in Boston on November 28, 1942, killed 492 people, marking it as the deadliest nightclub fire in U.S. history. The tragedy exposed severe safety violations, including locked exits and flammable decorations. In response, the National Fire Protection Association enacted stricter fire codes, emphasizing the importance of safety regulations to prevent future disasters, a concern echoed in recent investigations.

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Story summary

Swiss authorities have launched a criminal investigation into Jacques Moretti and Jessica Moretti, managers of Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, after a New Year’s fire killed at least 40 people.
The couple face negligent-homicide and arson charges.
Investigators believe sparklers on champagne bottles ignited the fire near the ceiling.
Many victims were young, some as young as 16.
The investigation will examine safety measures, including fire extinguishers and escape routes.

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