The husband-and-wife owners of a popular bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana have been formally charged in connection with a devastating fire that killed at least 40 people on New Year's Day.
Criminal Investigation Opened
Valais cantonal police announced on Saturday that a criminal investigation had been opened against Jacques Moretti, 49, and his wife Jessica, 40. The couple are the managers of the 'Le Constellation' bar, where the blaze broke out in the early hours of 1 January 2026.
In an official statement, authorities confirmed the pair are charged with manslaughter by negligence, bodily harm by negligence, and arson by negligence. The fire, which spread rapidly across the venue's ceiling, claimed 40 lives and left 119 people injured, many seriously.
Owners Break Cover Amidst Probe
The charges were made public shortly after Jacques Moretti was seen for the first time since the tragedy. He was photographed driving a white Jaguar SUV away from his home, accompanied by a woman believed to be his wife.
When approached by reporters and asked to stop and speak, he simply replied, "No." It is understood the couple had previously been interviewed by police as witnesses, not as suspects under caution.
It is important to note that under Swiss law, being charged signifies a person is officially under investigation as part of a police probe, differing slightly from the UK definition. Authorities stressed that the presumption of innocence applies until a final conviction.
Alleged Safety Failings Scrutinised
The couple, who have faced significant public criticism since the disaster, are under scrutiny for alleged safety failings inside their bar. The initial findings of the investigation, conducted under the direction of the Public Prosecutor's Office of the Canton of Valais, led directly to the decision to open the criminal case.
The investigation continues as the community and the families of the victims seek answers following one of Switzerland's deadliest fires in recent history.
