A Swiss court has ruled that Jacques Moretti, the co-owner of a bar in the exclusive ski resort of Crans-Montana where a tragic fire claimed the lives of 40 individuals on New Year’s Day, will remain in custody for a provisional period of three months. The court stated that this detention may be reassessed if preventive measures are implemented to mitigate any flight risks, such as providing a security deposit.
After a thorough hearing, prosecutors from the Valais canton had initially ordered Moretti’s detention on Friday following discussions with him and his spouse, Jessica, who have both conveyed their sorrow over the incident and pledged full cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
In response to the court’s decision, Jessica Moretti’s legal representatives issued a statement affirming that once the specified conditions are satisfied, her husband will be allowed to regain his freedom. They emphasized the couple’s unwavering commitment to participating in the legal proceedings together without attempting to evade them.
Last Friday, Swiss authorities declared a national day of mourning and tolling church bells nationwide to pay tribute to the victims of the tragic incident. Among the 40 casualties, over half were teenagers, and an additional 116 individuals sustained injuries, with many in critical condition.
