A fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, during a New Year's party on January 1, resulted in 41 fatalities and 119 injuries. The ongoing investigation is examining the fire's suspected origin from sparkling candles, the flammability of installed soundproofing materials, a reported lapse in fire safety inspections since 2019, and the accessibility of emergency exits. Bar co-owners are facing criminal charges in connection with the incident.
Incident Overview
The fire occurred shortly after midnight on January 1 at Le Constellation bar. Initial reports indicated 40 fatalities and over 100 injuries. The death toll subsequently rose to 41 after an 18-year-old Swiss national succumbed to injuries approximately one month later in a Zurich hospital.
Among the victims, more than half were reported to be teenagers, with ages ranging from 14 to 39. The youngest identified victims included a 14-year-old Swiss girl and a 14-year-old French boy. All 40 initial victims were identified by Swiss police.
Investigation into Fire Origin and Materials
Investigators suspect the fire originated from sparkling candles, described in some reports as 'golden sprinklers', used with Champagne bottles. These candles are believed to have made contact with soundproofing material on the bar's ceiling.
Soundproofing Material Compliance
Authorities are assessing whether the ceiling's soundproofing material complied with regulations. The foam sound insulation had not been flagged in prior reviews but is now suspected of contributing to the fire's rapid spread.
Jacques Moretti, co-owner of the bar, stated he purchased the foam from a DIY store and installed it himself during renovations in 2015. He asserted that tests he conducted indicated the candles were not powerful enough to ignite the acoustic foam.
Permitted Use of Candles
Investigators are also examining if the use of sparkling candles was permitted within the bar. Jessica Moretti, co-owner and wife of Jacques, stated that sparkler candles were routinely added when serving wine.
Safety Inspection Lapses
A significant focus of the investigation is the lapse in fire safety inspections at Le Constellation bar.
Inspection Timeline and Requirements
Swiss authorities reported that fire safety inspections had not been conducted at the establishment since 2019. Valais regional regulations mandate annual fire safety inspections for public-accessible buildings, with municipalities responsible for these checks.
Municipal Acknowledgment
The Crans-Montana municipality confirmed that "periodic checks were not carried out between 2020 and 2025."
Nicolas Féraud, head of Crans-Montana's municipal government, did not immediately provide an explanation for the lapse but stated that judicial authorities would evaluate its potential influence.
The municipality noted that inspections, which included fire safety assessments, had occurred in 2016, 2018, and 2019, leading to requests for modifications. No issues regarding soundproofing measures were documented at those times.
Soundproofing Analysis
An external expert had conducted a soundproofing analysis in September, concluding that the bar met anti-noise requirements without further remarks. Current inspection regulations reportedly do not include evaluations of noise cancellation materials on ceilings.
Emergency Exits and Building Modifications
Concerns have been raised regarding the bar's emergency exits and layout.
Exit Sufficiency and Locked Door
The premises were equipped with two fire exits, deemed sufficient for a maximum capacity of 100 customers in the upper section and 100 in the basement. The exact number of individuals present at the time of the fire remains undetermined.
Survivor testimonies and local accounts questioned whether a basement fire exit was secured. Co-owner Jacques Moretti informed investigators that he discovered a service door locked from the inside shortly after his arrival at the scene. He stated he forced the door open and subsequently found multiple people behind it.
Structural Changes
Reports also indicate that the main staircase, originally 10 feet wide, had been narrowed to 3 feet in 2015. The municipality confirmed that the bar owner received a permit for a veranda in 2015 and undertook interior renovations that did not necessitate a permit.
Criminal Proceedings
Swiss prosecutors have initiated a criminal investigation into the bar's management.
Charges and Arrests
Bar co-owners Jacques and Jessica Moretti are suspected of involuntary homicide, involuntary bodily harm, and involuntarily causing a fire (also reported as negligent manslaughter, negligent arson, and negligent bodily harm).
Jacques Moretti was taken into custody and ordered to three months of pretrial detention on January 12. He was released on bail on January 23. Jessica Moretti was released after a hearing.
Municipal Stance
Nicolas Féraud, president of the Crans-Montana council, stated that the council recognizes the absence of recent fire inspections and would accept any responsibility attributed by the judicial system. He also mentioned a "culture of reckless risk" attributed to the managers.
Regulatory Actions and International Assistance
In response to the incident, the Crans-Montana municipality has implemented a ban on indoor fireworks and pyrotechnics in enclosed spaces. An external agency has been commissioned to conduct inspections of similar establishments. Another venue operated by the same management team has been closed.
The Paris prosecutor’s office announced the opening of a probe to assist the Swiss investigation and streamline communication for the families of French victims with Swiss investigators.
Regarding Underage Patrons
Regarding underage patrons, co-owner Jacques Moretti stated the establishment prohibited patrons under 16 years old, and customers aged 16 to 18 were required to be accompanied by an adult. He acknowledged that a "lapse in protocol" was possible.