Swiss Bar Fire Investigation Expands to Include Mayor and Four Officials
The investigation into the catastrophic Swiss bar fire that claimed 41 lives has been significantly widened, now encompassing the mayor of Crans-Montana and four other local officials as suspects, according to newly released legal documents. This development marks a major escalation in the probe into one of Switzerland's worst modern disasters.
Mayor Summoned for Questioning Over Safety Lapses
Mayor Nicolas Feraud, who is in his 50s, has been formally summoned to appear for questioning on April 14. Feraud had previously publicly acknowledged that the municipality failed to conduct multiple annual safety inspections at the Le Constellation bar. "We are deeply sorry. We had no indication that the checks had not been done as requested," Feraud stated to reporters in January, shortly after the tragedy unfolded. He has not provided an immediate response to recent requests for comment regarding his inclusion as a suspect.
Prosecutors Confirm Expanded Suspect List
The prosecutor's office in the Valais canton has confirmed to Reuters that additional individuals have been placed under investigation in this high-profile case. The suspected crimes include negligent homicide, though specific details about the allegations remain undisclosed at this stage. The legal documents name four other past and present local officials from the Valais canton, whose identities are being withheld in compliance with stringent Swiss privacy regulations.
Background of the Tragic Incident
The devastating fire that engulfed the Le Constellation bar on January 1, 2026, ranks among the most severe disasters in contemporary Swiss history. Authorities have indicated that the blaze appears to have been ignited by sparkler candles on champagne bottles, a detail that has intensified scrutiny of safety protocols. The incident has not only resulted in profound loss of life but has also strained diplomatic relations with neighbouring Italy, which mourns the loss of six of its nationals in the fire.
Ongoing Impact on Victims and Community
Many young individuals continue to receive hospital treatment for severe burn injuries, underscoring the long-term physical and emotional toll of the event. Furthermore, the tragedy has sent shockwaves through the lucrative tourism sector of Crans-Montana, an affluent town renowned for its sunny, south-facing ski slopes and prestigious golf courses, which attract visitors from France, Italy, and the United States.
Evolution of the Criminal Probe
Initially, prosecutors focused their inquiries on the French bar owners, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, who remain under investigation. The probe was first expanded in late January to include one current and one former local official. The Morettis have both expressed profound grief over the fire and pledged full cooperation with the investigative authorities.
With these latest additions, the case now involves a total of nine defendants. If convicted, each faces a potential maximum prison sentence of four and a half years, highlighting the serious legal ramifications of the alleged negligence linked to this heartbreaking event.
