Swiss court keeps bar owner in custody after deadly fire

A Swiss court has ordered the co-owner of a bar in the upscale ski resort of Crans-Montana to remain in custody following a deadly fire that killed 40 people on New Year’s Day.

In a statement issued Monday, the court said Jacques Moretti would be held for an initial provisional period of three months. However, the detention could be reviewed if steps are taken to reduce the risk of flight, including the payment of a security deposit.

Prosecutors in the canton of Valais had ordered Moretti’s detention on Friday after a lengthy hearing involving him and his wife, Jessica Moretti, who jointly own the bar where the fire broke out.

Lawyers for Jessica Moretti said the ruling leaves room for her husband’s release once the court’s conditions are met. They said the court took into account the couple’s commitment to cooperate fully with investigators and not evade the legal proceedings they are expected to face.

The fire, which tore through the bar in the early hours of January 1, is one of the deadliest incidents in Switzerland in recent years. Authorities have not yet disclosed the exact cause, but investigators are examining whether safety regulations, emergency exits and crowd capacity rules were properly observed.

Crans-Montana is a popular winter destination known for its luxury hotels, nightlife and large holiday crowds during the festive season. The tragedy has sparked nationwide debate over fire safety standards in entertainment venues and the enforcement of local regulations, particularly during peak tourism periods.

Swiss authorities say the investigation is ongoing and that no formal charges have yet been announced.