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Crans-Montana Bar Fire That Killed 40: Defense Challenges Negligence, New Hearings Set

The inquiry centers on pyrotechnic sparks igniting ceiling foam, with scrutiny of unperformed safety checks.

Overview

  • Investigators say sparks from a candle-fountain effect ignited acoustic foam on the basement ceiling of the Constellation bar.
  • Crans-Montana authorities acknowledge no fire-safety inspection since 2019, and the last control reportedly did not flag the foam as dangerous.
  • Owner Jacques Moretti remains in provisional detention for three months, with possible release on 200,000 Swiss francs bail pending a court decision.
  • Two hearings are scheduled this week, as defense lawyers argue there is mounting outside pressure and maintain the emergency exit was not blocked.
  • Business records indicate Jacques Moretti was removed as a registered manager in February 2024, a change legal experts say could shift civil liability unless he is deemed a de facto officer.