The devastated parents of a young waitress, who was captured on video wearing a crash helmet and holding sparklers moments before a catastrophic bar fire in Switzerland, have spoken out against those attempting to blame their daughter for the tragedy that claimed 40 lives.
A Tragic New Year's Eve Celebration
Cyane Panine, a 24-year-old French national affectionately known as 'the girl in the helmet', was among the 40 individuals who lost their lives in the devastating blaze at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana on New Year's Day. The horrific incident also left approximately 100 people injured, with many still hospitalised suffering from severe burns.
Investigators have determined that pyrotechnics ignited highly flammable soundproofing foam installed on the bar's low ceiling, creating an inferno that engulfed the entire venue in less than 45 seconds. The rapid spread of flames created a scene of panic as revellers found themselves trapped inside the crowded establishment.
Heartbroken Parents Defend Their Daughter's Memory
Cyane's 64-year-old mother described her daughter as "spontaneous, radiant and full of heart", emphasising that she "trusted people without the slightest suspicion". She poignantly added: "She paid the ultimate price for this with her life."
Her 59-year-old father, a respected expert in water conservation, expressed his anguish to the Daily Mail, stating: "I cannot accept that my daughter is remembered only as the girl with the helmet, with flares in her hands." The grieving parents have strongly objected to suggestions that their daughter bears responsibility for the tragedy.
Bar Owners Face Serious Criminal Charges
Bar proprietors Jacques and Jessica Moretti are currently under criminal investigation for homicide by negligence. Prosecutors are examining multiple serious allegations, including:
- Vital emergency exits being locked during the incident
- Flammable ceiling foam being installed by Mr Moretti without proper safety checks
- The establishment not undergoing a fire safety inspection since 2019
In a tribute released shortly after the blaze, the Morettis described Cyane as being "almost a member of the family". However, the waitress's parents have strongly criticised these statements, accusing the owners of making "false statements" to distance themselves from liability. The couple has denied any knowledge of the risks posed by the foam or that they encouraged staff to use sparklers.
Legal Proceedings and Ongoing Investigation
Jacques Moretti was recently released on bail for 200,000 Swiss francs (approximately £190,000) after previously being ordered to three months detention due to his criminal record. Jessica Moretti has been prohibited from leaving Switzerland as the investigation continues to unfold.
A legal representative for the couple has stated they will "both continue to comply with all requests from the authorities" as the judicial process moves forward. The tragic incident has raised significant questions about fire safety regulations and enforcement in entertainment venues across Switzerland.
The community of Crans-Montana continues to mourn the devastating loss of life while authorities work to establish the full circumstances surrounding one of Switzerland's deadliest bar fires in recent memory.
