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Leaked Testimony and Pyro Cache Details Sharpen Probe Into Crans‑Montana Bar Fire

Prosecutors are examining negligent‑homicide allegations following reports of indoor fountain effects alongside a stored arsenal of fireworks.

Overview

  • The Canton of Valais approved CHF 10,000 in emergency payments to the families of 40 victims and to 116 survivors hospitalized after the New Year fire.
  • A confidential investigators’ report describes dozens of spent fire‑fountain remnants in the venue and a cellar stock that included illegal Lupo P1 ground fireworks and roughly 100 packaged fontaines.
  • Owners Jacques and Jessica Moretti told investigators they used a recurring “Sparkler” ritual in which champagne was served with pyrotechnic fontaines to create atmosphere.
  • Video from the night shows a waitress carrying champagne with sparking devices shortly before ceiling material caught fire around 1:26 a.m., and she has been reported among the dead.
  • Jacques Moretti is in pre‑trial detention and Jessica Moretti faces travel restrictions, while the deceased waitress’s family disputes the operators’ characterizations and says she followed instructions.