• Jacques Moretti, co-owner of the Crans-Montana bar, detained for three months following a deadly fire.
• The fire resulted in 40 deaths and 116 injuries, predominantly among teenagers.
• Investigations are ongoing into potential negligence regarding fire safety regulations.

A Swiss court has mandated the provisional detention of Jacques Moretti, co-owner of Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, for a period of three months due to a potential flight risk following a catastrophic fire that occurred on New Year's Day, claiming 40 lives. The presiding court indicated that the length of detention could be reviewed if sufficient security measures like a security deposit are arranged, according to Reuters and Le Monde.

The fire, which broke out while the bar was packed with partygoers, resulted in 40 fatalities and injured 116 others, many critically. Most victims were teenagers who were celebrating New Year's Eve, as reported by Los Angeles Times and Le Monde. The couple, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, expressed their devastation over the incident and are cooperating with the investigation into possible charges of negligence.

Investigators have indicated that the fire may have been sparked by sparklers igniting soundproofing foam in the bar, raising questions about compliance with fire safety regulations. It is noted that fire inspections had not been conducted at Le Constellation since 2019, an alarming fact that has sparked outrage, according to Reuters, Los Angeles Times, and Le Monde.

The court also noted that during the initial chaos, a service door was found locked from the inside, which further complicated the evacuation process. Eyewitnesses reported severe conditions during the incident, making escape difficult, as stated in reports from Le Monde and Los Angeles Times. As investigations continue, the public remains concerned about ensuring accountability for safety lapses that led to this tragedy.