A Swiss court released Jacques Moretti, co-owner of Le Constellation bar, on bail Friday with strict conditions. The court set bail at 200,000 Swiss francs and required Moretti to remain in Switzerland, deposit his identity documents with prosecutors, and report to police daily. The bar fire on Jan. 1 in the Alpine resort of Crans-Montana killed 40 people and injured more than 100.
The release is a development in the criminal investigation into the New Year’s fire, where prosecutors are examining whether fire safety standards were followed and whether the bar owners’ decisions contributed to the deaths.
Detention Lifted
The court in the southwestern Valais region said it had lifted the pretrial detention order and instead imposed measures to counter a “flight risk.” Lawyers for the couple said in a statement Friday that they will continue to respond to all requests from authorities and “their constant thoughts remain with the victims of this tragedy.”
Investigation Examines Fire’s Cause
Investigators believe sparkling candles ignited the fire when they came too close to the ceiling, which was outfitted with soundproofing material. They are looking into whether the material conformed with regulations and whether the candles were permitted for use in the bar.
Safety Inspections Lapsed
Local authorities said fire safety inspections of the bar had not been carried out since 2019.