The head of Canton Valais, Mathias Reynard, criticised local authorities after the Crans-Montana bar "Le Constellation" was found to have gone without safety inspections since 2019, six years before a New Year blaze that killed 40 people, mostly teenagers. Authorities say soundproofing foam in the basement should have been legally inspected. Prosecutors have detained co-owner Jacques Moretti as they investigate possible homicide by negligence, while victims' families have filed complaints and calls for wider accountability are intensifying.
Swiss Canton Chief Condemns Six-Year Lapse In Inspections After Deadly Bar Fire
A general view of the "Le Constellation" bar, after a deadly fire and explosion during a New Year's Eve party in the upscale ski resort of Crans-Montana in southwestern Switzerland, January 6, 2026. REUTERS/Umit Bektas
ZURICH, Jan 10 (Reuters) — The head of Canton Valais, Mathias Reynard, has voiced sharp criticism after it emerged that the "Le Constellation" bar in Crans-Montana had not been inspected since 2019 — six years before a New Year’s Eve blaze that killed 40 people, most of them teenagers.
Missed Inspections Draw Official Outrage
"I was angry, obviously," Reynard told Le Temps when asked about the missing checks. "At these serious failings. And I think it's normal to be angry. But we have to let justice take its course."
The mayor of the Crans-Montana ski resort confirmed this week that local safety inspections had not been carried out since 2019. The Valais head of security added that the soundproofing foam in the bar's basement — where the fire is believed to have started during New Year celebrations — should by law have been subject to safety checks, a statement that appears to contradict the mayor's account. Authorities say most victims were teenagers.
Prosecutors Step Up Investigation
Prosecutors have intensified efforts to determine responsibility for the disaster. On Friday they ordered the detention of Jacques Moretti, one of the bar's two French co-owners; a court will soon decide whether to place him under formal arrest. The public prosecutor's office is investigating the owners on suspicion of several offences, including homicide by negligence, while families of victims have lodged legal complaints.
Jessica Moretti, Jacques Moretti's partner and co-owner, publicly apologised to victims and said the couple are devastated by the tragedy.
Calls For Broader Accountability
Calls have grown across Switzerland for those responsible to be held to account. Critics of the inquiry have questioned why both owners remained free for an extended period after the fire and why required inspections were not carried out. Reynard said responsibility may extend beyond the bar's ownership and include relevant authorities.
The investigation remains active as prosecutors gather evidence and courts weigh detention requests and possible charges. Families and the public await further legal steps in the coming weeks.
(Writing by Dave Graham. Editing by Mark Potter)
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