The owners of the Swiss ski bar where a tragic fire claimed the lives of 40 individuals will be questioned regarding the source of their wealth. Jacques and Jessica Moretti, the proprietors of Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, were present when the fire broke out in the early hours of January 1st, resulting in the deaths of 40 people, mostly teenagers, and injuries to 116 others.

Jacques Moretti, 49, was taken into custody for pre-trial detention, while his wife, Jessica, 40, was visibly emotional as she left the Public Prosecutors Office in Sion after being summoned for questioning. They are facing investigations for potential charges of manslaughter by negligence, bodily harm by negligence, and arson by negligence. Mrs. Moretti has not been detained.

Concerns have arisen regarding the Moretti couple’s financial background, with a focus on their rapid accumulation of assets in the Crans-Montana area. Questions have been raised about their real estate holdings, including Le Constellation bar, two houses, and two other businesses, all acquired without apparent mortgages. Sébastien Fanti, representing injured parties, expressed unease at the speed of their financial success.

Furthermore, details have emerged about Jacques Moretti’s past legal issues, including a conviction in France in 2008 for soliciting prostitution. Despite a ban on managing a company in France, he was free to operate businesses in Switzerland, where he ventured into the hospitality industry, acquiring properties and opening multiple establishments.

The tragic incident at Le Constellation has prompted scrutiny of the fire safety measures and the presence of minors in the bar during the blaze. The youngest victims were two 14-year-olds, while seven members of a local football club perished in the fire. Investigations are ongoing into the cause of the fire, believed to have been triggered by sparklers in champagne bottles igniting flammable materials in the bar’s ceiling.

As the authorities continue their inquiries, the Morettis have expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and pledged full cooperation with the investigation. The national mourning in Switzerland coincided with the couple’s engagement with the legal process, as they face scrutiny over their business operations and financial affairs in the wake of the devastating event.