Switzerland Adds Four Defendants to Ski Bar Fire Investigation
Swiss prosecutors have expanded the investigation into the fatal fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, which killed 41 people on New Year’s Day. The Valais prosecutor’s office confirmed on April 16 that four additional defendants have been added to the case, bringing the total number of accused individuals to thirteen. While the identities of the new defendants were not disclosed, the probe initially focused on the French owners of the establishment, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, who are suspected of negligent homicide. The investigation has since widened to include current and former local officials, reflecting a broader scrutiny of potential regulatory failures. If convicted, the defendants face a maximum penalty of four and a half years in prison. This development marks a significant escalation in the legal proceedings following the tragedy, as authorities seek to determine liability among both private business owners and public officials responsible for safety oversight in the upscale ski resort.
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Switzerland Adds Four Defendants to Ski Bar Fire Investigation
Swiss prosecutors have expanded the investigation into the fatal fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, which killed 41 people on New Year’s Day. The Valais prosecutor’s office confirmed on April 16 that four additional defendants have been added to the case, bringing the total number of accused individuals to thirteen. While the identities of the new defendants were not disclosed, the probe initially focused on the French owners of the establishment, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, who are suspected of negligent homicide. The investigation has since widened to include current and former local officials, reflecting a broader scrutiny of potential regulatory failures. If convicted, the defendants face a maximum penalty of four and a half years in prison. This development marks a significant escalation in the legal proceedings following the tragedy, as authorities seek to determine liability among both private business owners and public officials responsible for safety oversight in the upscale ski resort.
The Straits Times World News