The proprietors of the nightclub that was engulfed in a tragic fire, resulting in the death of at least 47 individuals and injuring 115 others, have connections to the United Kingdom, as revealed recently. Jacques Moretti and his spouse Jessica, prominent figures in the Swiss hospitality sector, established Le Constellation bar in the upscale Crans-Montana ski resort in December 2015. The establishment was obliterated in a devastating fire that claimed multiple lives, including young partygoers, in the early hours of New Year’s Day.
According to Mrs. Moretti’s Facebook profile, she pursued studies at the University of Glamorgan and completed programs at the International University of Monaco and the Montpelier Business School in France. The couple, believed to have a son, resides on Corsica, a French island. Crans-Montana, where their bar was located, primarily speaks French and draws French tourists for skiing and golf vacations, with the Morettis being among the early visitors in 2011.
Their bar, described as an elegant and lively space on the Crans-Montana website, was established in December 2015. It was known for permitting entry to individuals aged 16 and above, a rarity compared to the standard age restriction of 18 in most establishments in the resort.
Reports suggest that the fire may have been caused by sparklers placed in champagne bottles, although authorities are still investigating the exact cause. Mrs. Moretti reportedly sustained burns to her arm during the incident, while her husband was at another one of their venues. The couple is said to be deeply shocked by the tragic event.
Following the launch of Le Constellation, the Morettis expanded their business by opening additional restaurants in Switzerland, earning a reputation as a dedicated and successful duo. While they were commended in local media for their enthusiasm and energy towards their ventures, they are now facing scrutiny regarding the fire at Le Constellation, which was situated in a previously abandoned structure.
As anxious parents continue to search for their missing teenagers, questions loom over the circumstances of the fire. Eyewitness footage captures the moment when champagne sparklers ignited material on the nightclub’s ceiling, leading to a deadly flashover. Describing the chaotic scene, witnesses recounted the narrow staircase and the frantic rush to evacuate the premises.
Police commander Frédéric Gisler confirmed that the fire originated in the bar’s basement and emphasized the chaotic situation as people struggled to escape through a single staircase. The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.