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Crans‑Montana Pledges CHF 1 Million for Fire Victims as Prosecutors Keep Witness Site Online

Prosecutors have broadened the negligence case following the New Year’s Eve blaze that killed 41.

Overview

  • The commune said it will transfer CHF 1,000,000 to a victims’ aid foundation in formation after the Le Constellation fire, which left 41 dead and about 115–116 injured.
  • Valais prosecutors rejected a bid by Jacques and Jessica Moretti to shut down a public platform collecting photos, videos and accounts, while urging contributors to preserve originals and share evidence directly with police.
  • The criminal inquiry targets the bar’s owners for negligent homicide, negligent bodily harm and negligent arson, and now also includes two municipal safety officials who are due to be heard.
  • Owner Jacques Moretti left custody on January 23 after a CHF 200,000 bail was paid by an anonymous Geneva businessman, with media reporting a Dubai-linked transfer and a named watchmaking heir publicly denying any role.
  • A gravely injured 18‑year‑old survivor told Swiss media the manager did not assist patrons during the blaze, an allegation entering the broader public testimony around the case.