Overview
- Valais prosecutors placed managers Jacques and Jessica Moretti under investigation on suspected negligent homicide, negligent bodily harm and negligent arson, with the presumption of innocence in place.
- Investigators say fountain-style sparklers on champagne bottles likely ignited foam or sound-dampening material on a low ceiling, with videos showing sparks moments before the blaze spread rapidly.
- The inquiry will review occupancy limits, escape routes, fire extinguishers, whether indoor sparklers or candles were permitted, and materials used in past renovations.
- Authorities report 40 dead and about 119 injured, many teenagers and young adults from multiple countries, with identification slowed by severe burns and DNA sampling requirements.
- Switzerland set January 9 as a national day of mourning, as victim identification and cross-border transfers to specialist burn centers continue.