Deadly Blaze Claims 40 Lives
In the early hours of January 1, a fire at Le Constellation in Crans-Montana claimed the lives of 40 people. More than 100 guests suffered injuries, many with severe burns. The tragedy stunned Switzerland and raised urgent questions about safety in crowded venues.
The bar’s owners, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, now face possible trial for manslaughter and causing bodily harm by negligence.
How the Fire Started
Investigators revealed that 24-year-old waitress Cyane Panine, a French national, was allegedly involved in triggering the fire. The blaze reportedly began when Cyane sat on a colleague’s shoulders holding two champagne bottles with lit sparklers. Sparks ignited the soundproof foam on the basement ceiling, causing the inferno.
Authorities say Cyane had been acting under the Morettis’ instructions. Police statements indicate the bar owners encouraged staff to use sparklers to “get the atmosphere going” because the night was quiet and attendance was low.
The Victim and Hero
Tragically, Cyane herself perished in the fire. Jacques described her as a “stepdaughter,” noting she was the partner of a close family friend he had raised like his own. Cyane’s family emphasized through their lawyers that she followed employer instructions and bears no personal responsibility for the tragedy.
Eyewitnesses reported that 34 of the 40 victims died on a single staircase leading from the basement. Many were teenagers, with eight under 16. The narrow stairway became a deadly trap as panicked guests tried to escape.
Image credits: le20hfrancetel
Bar Owners’ Legal Situation
Jacques is currently in custody, deemed a flight risk, while Jessica has been banned from leaving Switzerland pending trial. Jacques told authorities he discovered Cyane and other victims after forcing open the basement door, which had been locked from the inside.
Jessica reportedly fled the scene after the fire, taking the night’s cash earnings. Both owners have acknowledged their responsibility but maintain that they never anticipated such a disaster.
Safety Lapses and Public Outcry
Le Constellation had not undergone a safety inspection in five years, despite Swiss law requiring annual checks. Crans-Montana Mayor Nicolas Feraud admitted he could not explain the lapse and promised accountability.
Families of the victims have demanded answers. Attorney Romain Jordan highlighted multiple breaches and called for urgent scrutiny of local authorities, citing systemic failures that allowed the fire to escalate.
Moving Forward
Jessica has publicly apologized to victims and families, calling the tragedy unthinkable. The town and authorities continue investigating, while the March trial will determine the legal consequences for the Morettis.
Meanwhile, the memory of the young victims has sparked a nationwide conversation about fire safety, venue inspections, and public responsibility.
