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Victim Identifications Reach 24 as Swiss Prosecutors Probe Bar Owners in Crans‑Montana Fire

Investigators say sparklers on champagne bottles likely ignited a ceiling that burned rapidly in the basement venue.

Overview

  • Owners Jacques and Jessica Moretti are under formal investigation for negligent homicide, negligent bodily harm and negligent arson, with no arrests and presumption of innocence maintained.
  • Police confirmed 16 additional identifications on Sunday, bringing the total to 24, including Swiss, Italian, French, Turkish and Romanian victims, as forensic teams use DNA and dental records.
  • Hospitals are treating 119 wounded, many with severe burns, and several patients were transferred to Germany, Italy, France and Poland as Swiss burn units reached capacity.
  • Prosecutors are examining renovation records, acoustic insulation on the ceiling, fire‑suppression equipment, escape routes and occupancy after video showed the fire erupting near the ceiling.
  • Authorities urged tighter venue checks and signaled possible restrictions on indoor incendiary devices, as residents held a silent march and federal officials visited the site.