Crans-Montana Bar Fire: Prosecutors Face Pressure to Escalate Charges, June 11

On January 1, 2026, a fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana killed 41 people and injured 115 others during New Year’s Eve celebrations. Sparklers attached to champagne bottles ignited foam on the ceiling, triggering the blaze. Now, lawyers representing victims’ families and a waitress are demanding prosecutors escalate charges against bar owners Jessica and Jacques Moretti from negligent homicide to intentional murder based on new evidence.

What the Lawyers Are Demanding

Attorneys representing victims’ families and a bar employee filed requests with the Walliser state prosecutor demanding upgraded charges. They want the Morettis prosecuted for eventual intentional homicide instead of negligent homicide. The push came after Jessica Moretti’s hearing revealed WhatsApp messages with former staff from 2019 that lawyers say show the owners knew about fire risks.

The Fire and Its Toll

The blaze erupted early January 1 at the packed Alpine bar during celebrations. Sparklers attached to champagne bottles ignited ceiling foam, spreading flames rapidly. Authorities identified four young Swiss victims by January 3, including two 16-year-olds. Most injured were foreign nationals, many in serious condition requiring treatment in nearby countries.

Political Response and Accountability

Switzerland declared a national day of mourning on January 9. The Walliser state prosecutor confirmed it received the lawyers’ requests and is reviewing evidence. A criminal investigation opened against the bar owners. Some observers have questioned why municipal authorities failed to enforce fire safety certifications for years before the tragedy.

Ongoing Legal Questions

The case hinges on whether prosecutors can prove the Morettis acted with eventual intent to cause harm, a higher legal threshold than negligence. Lawyers argue the 2019 messages show prior knowledge of fire hazards. The prosecutor must decide whether to reclassify charges or maintain the current negligent homicide designation.

Final Thoughts

Lawyers are pushing for murder charges against the Crans-Montana bar owners based on evidence of prior knowledge of fire risks. The outcome will shape accountability for Switzerland’s deadliest recent disaster.

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