Full Breakdown
Crans-Montana Fire Disaster Investigation: Mayor Questioned
4/13/2026, 11:02:38 PM
Overview of the Investigation
On April 13, 2023, Nicolas Feraud, the mayor of Crans-Montana, Switzerland, was questioned for the first time by public prosecutors regarding the New Year fire disaster at the "Le Constellation" bar. The tragic incident, which occurred on January 1, 2023, resulted in the deaths of 41 individuals and left 115 others injured, many with severe burns. Feraud is one of nine individuals under criminal investigation, including the bar's French owners, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, who face charges of manslaughter by negligence, bodily harm by negligence, and arson by negligence.
Lack of Safety Oversight
The investigation has raised significant concerns about safety oversight in Crans-Montana. Notably, Feraud admitted that no safety inspections had been conducted at the bar since 2019, a revelation that sparked outrage among victims' families and legal representatives. Romain Jordan, a lawyer for several victims' families, criticized the mayor's administration for allowing a culture of lax safety standards to persist, questioning why safety checks were neglected and why employee concerns were not addressed.
Timeline of Events
- January 1, 2023: Fire breaks out at "Le Constellation," resulting in 41 deaths and 115 injuries.
- January 6, 2023: Mayor Feraud reveals that no safety checks had been conducted since 2019.
- April 13, 2023: Feraud is questioned by prosecutors for the first time.
Official Statements & Responses
Victims' lawyers have expressed frustration over the delayed questioning of Feraud, emphasizing the need for accountability. Sébastien Fanti, a lawyer for the victims, stated, "For the families, the word that comes to mind is 'finally.'" Feraud himself acknowledged his responsibility, stating, "I will take responsibility for what I am responsible for if I am charged." The investigation aims to clarify the decisions made by local authorities and the compliance of the bar's owners with safety regulations.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have highlighted the slow pace of the investigation and the lack of timely accountability from local officials. Alain Viscolo, representing civil parties, expressed hope that the investigation would yield answers, stating, "I hope that Mayor Feraud will not be turning a blind eye." The absence of safety checks for several years has raised serious questions about the municipal administration's commitment to public safety.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
As of April 8, 2023, 38 patients remained hospitalized due to injuries sustained in the fire, with some receiving treatment in specialized burns units across Switzerland and Europe. Jacques Moretti's scheduled questioning was postponed indefinitely due to medical reasons, leaving some aspects of the investigation unresolved.
What's Next
The investigation continues, with further hearings planned for other individuals involved in the case. The public prosecutor's office is expected to pursue clarity on the responsibilities of local authorities and the bar's owners in the lead-up to the disaster.
