The proprietor of a Swiss bar that was engulfed in a fatal inferno on New Year’s Eve has been apprehended and labeled as a “flight risk” by law enforcement. Jacques Moretti, 49, and his wife Jessica are now under scrutiny for potential criminal manslaughter after a tragic incident at Switzerland’s upscale Crans-Montana ski resort on New Year’s Day. During the New Year celebrations in 2026, a devastating fire, reportedly ignited by sparklers inserted into champagne bottles, erupted, resulting in the loss of approximately 40 lives and leaving 119 individuals with severe burns.
The Morettis are currently facing allegations of manslaughter due to negligence, bodily harm due to negligence, and negligent arson. Reports indicate that the bar manager, known to have a criminal record, had prior convictions for offenses such as pimping and involvement in the ‘Hot Rabbit’ sex worker case. Legal representatives for the fire victims have raised concerns about Mr. Moretti’s questionable history and dubious practices.
According to sources, Mr. Moretti was involved in a case where he recruited young French women to work as sex workers at a massage parlor in Geneva named ‘Hot Rabbit Rendezvous.’ His past includes convictions for aggravated pimping, wherein he was accused of managing the women’s activities and financially benefiting from their prostitution. Despite denying some charges, Mr. Moretti has faced legal repercussions for various offenses over the years, including social security fraud.
The couple, originally from Corsica, reportedly relocated to Switzerland to evade Jacques’ troubled past in France. They transformed a modest cafe bar into an upscale nightclub, Le Constellation, in Crans-Montana, where underage patrons were allegedly allowed. Prior to this venture, Mr. Moretti had experience in the nightlife industry, having previously operated a nightclub in Corsica.
Following the tragic incident, authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the fire, including potential violations of fire safety regulations. The ongoing probe will examine the roles of the bar owners and local authorities, who admitted to neglecting fire safety inspections at the establishment since 2019. The couple also owns other businesses, including a burger bar and a restaurant in different locations.
Despite the allegations and ongoing investigations, the Morettis maintain their innocence and express remorse for the tragic events. Jessica, who must adhere to police check-ins and wear an electronic monitoring device, has been actively cooperating with authorities. The public statement from Mr. Moretti reflects their commitment to assisting in clarifying the incident’s causes and cooperating with legal proceedings.
The investigation into the fatal fire at Le Constellation continues, with authorities focusing on the source of the blaze and potential safety violations. Beatrice Pilloud, attorney general for the Valais region, highlighted the significance of examining the materials used, emergency exits, and fire safety measures within the bar. The investigation remains ongoing.