Jacques Moretti Released on Bail in Crans-Montana Fire Investigation Amid Controversy

Jacques Moretti, co-owner of the bar Le Constellation in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, was released from preventive detention on January 23, 2026, after two weeks in custody. This decision was issued by the Valais canton tribunal following a bail payment of approximately 215,000 euros (200,000 Swiss francs), with relatives reportedly willing to cover the sum. The court imposed strict conditions on Moretti’s release, including a prohibition on leaving Switzerland and a requirement to report daily to the police.

This release comes amid ongoing investigations into the tragic fire that erupted on New Year's Eve, claiming the lives of 40 people and injuring 116 others. The fire was reportedly caused by sparks from 'fountain' candles igniting acoustic foam on the ceiling of the bar’s basement. Authorities have raised concerns about the adequacy of safety measures, noting no fire system inspections were conducted by the Crans-Montana municipality since 2019.

Both Jacques Moretti and his wife Jessica face charges including negligent homicide, negligent bodily injury, and negligent arson. While Jacques was detained, Jessica Moretti remains free under judicial controls. The case has sparked outrage among victims’ families and their legal representatives, who criticize the court’s decision to release Jacques Moretti, citing fears of flight or collusion, particularly given Moretti's Corsican connections.

The investigation continues to probe the circumstances surrounding the bar’s safety compliance, including the type of foam used, accessibility of fire extinguishers, and adequacy of emergency exits. The public prosecutor’s office has yet to decide if charges will be formally filed, but the presumption of innocence remains in place for the Morettis.

The Crans-Montana tragedy has exposed significant lapses in local enforcement of safety regulations, with the municipality acknowledging no safety inspections since 2019, drawing further scrutiny to the response and accountability measures.

According to reports, the victims’ lawyers remain critical of the bail decision, emphasizing the gravity of the incident and expressing concerns over potential risks posed by Moretti’s conditional freedom.