The owners of the Swiss nightclub where a fire killed at least 47 people and injured 115 have been found to have links to the UK. Jacques Moretti and his wife Jessica, who opened Le Constellation in Crans-Montana in December 2015, are facing scrutiny after the deadly blaze on New Year's Day.
Jessica Moretti's Facebook page indicates she studied at the University of Glamorgan in south Wales. The 40-year-old French national also completed programmes at the International University of Monaco and Montpelier Business School. The couple, who reportedly have a son, live on the French island of Corsica.
The fire is believed to have been caused by sparklers placed in champagne bottles, though officials say the exact cause will take time to determine. Witnesses described a waiter holding a birthday candle near the ceiling, which caught fire within minutes. The club's single narrow staircase led to a crush as revellers tried to escape.
Jessica Moretti was allegedly inside when the fire started and suffered burns to her arm, while her husband was working at another establishment. The couple are said to be 'completely in shock'. Police commander Frédéric Gisler confirmed the fire began in the basement, and the investigation continues.
