Jacques Moretti Arrested in Crans-Montana Bar Fire Probe
Crans-Montana, 9 January 2026 – Jacques Moretti, the co-owner of the Le Constellation bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, has been arrested following questioning in the investigation into a deadly New Year’s Eve fire that claimed 40 lives and injured 119 others. The 49-year-old Frenchman, along with his wife Jessica, faces charges of negligent arson and manslaughter. Authorities cited a potential risk of flight as the reason for his detention, while Jessica remains free. Moretti has a documented criminal history, including convictions for fraud, kidnapping, and pimping in France.
Background on Jacques Moretti
Jacques Moretti, originally from Corsica, France, relocated to Switzerland around 2011 after serving time in a French prison for offences related to fraud, kidnapping, and unlawful confinement. He and his wife Jessica took over the Le Constellation bar in 2015, transforming it into a popular nightclub. The couple also owns other properties in the region, including restaurants and holiday homes. Moretti’s past has come under scrutiny, with reports linking him to a 2008 conviction for exploiting prostitution in a Geneva massage parlour. He has denied wrongdoing in previous cases, claiming limited involvement. Despite this, his rapid business expansion in Switzerland has raised questions about the sources of his wealth.
The Crans-Montana Fire Tragedy
On 31 December 2025, a fire broke out in the basement of Le Constellation during a New Year’s Eve celebration. Witnesses reported that sparklers attached to champagne bottles ignited flammable ceiling materials, causing the blaze to spread rapidly. The bar’s narrow exits and lack of proper fire safety measures trapped many young revellers, mostly teenagers aged 14 to 21. Victims included Swiss, French, Italian, Romanian, and Turkish nationals. The fire reached temperatures of up to 600°C within seconds, leading to severe burns and fatalities. Investigations revealed that the venue had undergone only three safety inspections in the past decade, far below the annual requirements under Swiss law. Moretti was not present at the bar that night, but his wife Jessica suffered minor burns to her arm.
Key Facts and Statistics
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Fatalities | 40 people, mostly teenagers aged 14-21 |
| Injuries | 119, many with severe burns requiring hospital treatment |
| Jacques Moretti’s Age and Origin | 49, from Corsica, France |
| Previous Convictions | 2008: 12 months for pimping; 2005: Fraud and kidnapping |
| Bar Ownership | Acquired Le Constellation in 2015; value over CHF 1.5 million |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing; charges of negligent homicide and arson |
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the fire at Le Constellation?
The fire started when sparklers on champagne bottles came into contact with the bar’s flammable ceiling, made of wood and synthetic materials. The rapid spread was exacerbated by inadequate fire exits and safety protocols, as confirmed by Swiss prosecutors.
Why was Jacques Moretti arrested?
Following his interrogation on 9 January 2026, prosecutors ordered his detention due to concerns over a potential risk of flight. He remains presumed innocent until proven guilty, and the measure must be confirmed by a court within 48 hours.
What is Moretti’s criminal background?
Moretti has a history of convictions in France, including a 2008 sentence for facilitating prostitution and a 2005 case involving fraud and kidnapping. He has claimed these were misunderstandings or limited involvement.
How has the Swiss public reacted?
The tragedy has sparked outrage, with calls for stricter fire safety regulations in entertainment venues. Families of victims have demanded accountability, and Swiss President Guy Parmelin declared a national day of mourning.