Just over five months after the deadly fire at the Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Jacques and Jessica Moretti have been summoned again by the Valais judicial authorities. The couple, who ran the establishment, are to be questioned in Sion for a confrontation hearing, in the presence of investigators and the lawyers for the civil parties. This procedure aims to bring the two defendants' accounts face to face. The magistrates can ask the same questions to each of them, question them separately on specific points, or organize a direct exchange. For the Morettis, this is their fourth hearing in the case.
41 dead, 115 injured: New Year's Eve turned tragic
The tragedy occurred on New Year's Eve in the basement of the Constellation bar. The fire claimed 41 lives and injured 115, according to the official count in the ongoing investigation. Investigators believe the fire started with sparks from fountain candles that ignited the soundproofing foam attached to the basement ceiling. The fire spread rapidly through the enclosed space, which was filled with patrons. Dozens of people were trapped and suffered smoke inhalation.
The Moretti family at the heart of the matter
Jacques and Jessica Moretti are being prosecuted for manslaughter, arson, and grievous bodily harm. They are not the only ones implicated: a total of 14 people are targeted in the investigation, including the two managers, five current or former municipal officials, and seven current or former municipal employees. All remain presumed innocent. The authorities are seeking to establish responsibility for the security of the premises, the inspections carried out, the obligations of the operators, and the potential role of municipal services. Previous hearings have already focused on the facts, the management of the bar, and the safety conditions within the establishment.
A confrontation eagerly awaited by the plaintiffs
For the families of the victims and the injured, this hearing marks an important step. The lawyers for the civil parties will be able to participate in the proceedings, ask questions, and request clarification on any points that remain unclear. The confrontation should, in particular, allow for a comparison of the two managers' statements regarding the organization of the event, the security measures in place, the presence or absence of an alarm system, the emergency exits, and the instructions given to staff.
The justice system tightens the timetable
Jacques Moretti was initially scheduled to be questioned alone in April, but his hearing was postponed after he submitted a medical certificate. The magistrates then decided to also summon Jessica Moretti and hold a confrontation hearing. This new step does not close the investigation. It is intended to supplement the criminal case opened after one of the deadliest disasters to occur in Switzerland in recent years. Criminal liability will then have to be established by the courts.
