Swiss Court Rejects Italy's Civil Party Claim in Crans-Montana Fire

The prosecutor’s office in Sion, Switzerland, denied Italy’s request to be recognised as a civil party in the investigation of the 31‑December fire at the bar Le Constellation in Crans‑Montana. The blaze killed 41 people, including six Italian teenagers, and injured 115 others. Swiss authorities ruled that “neither the Italian citizenship of several victims nor the costs incurred by the Republic of Italy … are sufficient to confer the quality of injured party.”

Italy’s legal team, led by attorney Romain Jordan, has filed an appeal, arguing that the decision conflicts with European Court of Human Rights jurisprudence. The appeal contends that the state suffered direct damage through the loss of its citizens and the expenses of consular assistance. The dispute revives diplomatic tensions that had been eased after a previous episode between the two countries.

The fire was reportedly triggered when a sparkling candle attached to a champagne bottle was lifted, igniting the ceiling and spreading rapidly among roughly 200 patrons, many of them minors. The owners of the bar, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, deny responsibility. The outcome of Italy’s appeal will determine whether the state can participate in the criminal proceedings and seek compensation for its victims.