Swiss Prosecutors Seize Luxury Assets from Owners of Le Constellation Bar After Fatal Fire

Swiss prosecutors expanded their investigation into the fatal New Year's Eve fire at the Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, seizing luxury assets worth over half a million euros from the establishment's owners. Jacques and Jessica Moretti, the French owners of the bar, are currently the primary suspects in a case that has grown to include charges of negligent homicide, involuntary arson, embezzlement, and money laundering. Police recently confiscated a Bentley, a Porsche, and several Rolex watches belonging to the couple as part of the financial probe. The fire, which occurred during the transition from 2025 to 2026, resulted in 40 deaths and left 121 people injured. A new report released this week heavily criticized the Morettis' business management, characterizing their corporate structure as an empire of paper. Authorities are investigating whether the couple utilized false documents to secure loans and guarantees within Switzerland.

The scope of the criminal inquiry has now been widened to include Crans-Montana Mayor Nicolas Feraud and four other local officials. These five individuals are being investigated for their alleged failure to conduct mandatory safety inspections at the venue prior to the disaster. They face charges of involuntary manslaughter, involuntary bodily harm, and involuntary arson, matching the initial charges brought against the bar owners. Prosecutors are examining the administrative oversight of the Le Constellation to determine why the establishment was permitted to operate despite significant safety gaps. Jacques Moretti was recently released from custody after posting a bail of 200,000 Swiss francs. The inclusion of high-ranking officials suggests that investigators believe systemic negligence contributed to the high casualty count.

The MROS has provided evidence suggesting that Jacques Moretti may have maintained his business operations through fraudulent means. Investigators are also scrutinizing potential links between the Moretti family and criminal organizations as part of a broader inquiry into misappropriated funds. Public sentiment in the canton of Valais has remained highly critical of the owners since the tragedy occurred. Legal experts indicate that the complexity of the financial records and the number of defendants involved will likely lead to a prolonged judicial process. The seizure of luxury goods serves as a preliminary measure to secure potential compensation for the victims and their families.

Crans-Montana is a major Swiss ski resort in the canton of Valais, formed in 2017 through the merger of the municipalities of Montana, Mollens, Randogne, and Chermignon. The resort is a significant economic hub for the district of Sierre, hosting approximately 10,500 permanent residents as of late 2024. The fire at the Le Constellation bar on December 31, 2025, is one of the deadliest incidents in the history of the Swiss hospitality sector. Previous safety audits in the region have occasionally highlighted the challenges of regulating temporary structures and high-capacity venues during the peak winter tourist season.

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