Swiss bar owners charged over 2026 Crans-Montane fire

Swiss prosecutors have charged bar co‑owners Jacques and Jessica Moretti with forging a 2015 invoice for acoustic foam that prosecutors say ignited during a New Year’s Eve celebration in the Le Constellation bar in Crans‑Montana, leading to a deadly fire that killed 41 people. The owners also face charges of negligent homicide and arson. The alleged invoice concerns sound‑proofing foam installed on the bar’s ceiling, which investigators claim caught fire when patrons lifted champagne bottles with sparklers.

The Morettis’ lawyers argue the document is genuine, was voluntarily provided to investigators, and has no link to the tragedy, suggesting it may have been altered for tax purposes only. Ten‑hour police interrogations were conducted in Sion, the capital of the Valais canton, with the couple’s mother and other family members present. In total, 14 individuals—including current and former local officials—are under investigation for possible collusion or negligence.

Families of victims have criticised the timing of the latest hearing and warn that evidence may have been tampered with, calling for a thorough and swift judicial process.