Swiss Ski Bar Fire: Investigation Expands to Include Crans-Montana Mayor
Geneva, Switzerland – Swiss prosecutors have expanded their investigation into the devastating fire that ripped through the “Le Constellation” bar in Crans-Montana on New Year’s Eve, adding the town’s mayor, Nicolas Feraud and four other local officials to the list of suspects. The fire, which occurred during New Year celebrations on January 1, 2026, claimed the lives of 41 people, mostly teenagers, and injured 116 others.
Mayor Faces Questioning
Mayor Feraud is scheduled to be questioned on April 13th, according to a document seen by Reuters [Reuters]. He previously acknowledged that the municipality had failed to conduct required annual safety checks at the bar [Reuters]. “We are deeply sorry. We had no indication that the checks had not been done as requested,” Feraud stated in January.
Investigation Details
The prosecutor’s office in the Valais canton has confirmed that new individuals are under investigation, citing suspected crimes including negligent homicide, but has not provided further details [Reuters]. Four other current and former local officials in the Valais canton are also being investigated, but their identities are being withheld due to Swiss privacy laws [Reuters].
The Tragedy at Le Constellation
The fire at “Le Constellation” is considered one of the worst disasters in modern Swiss history [Strait Times]. The blaze broke out at 01:26 (CET) on January 1, 2026 [Wikipedia]. Many of the injured remain hospitalized with burn injuries, and the tragedy has impacted the region’s tourism sector, which relies heavily on visitors from France, Italy, and the United States [Strait Times].
Initial Focus on Bar Owners
The initial investigation centered on the French owners of the bar, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, who remain under investigation for culpable homicide [Strait Times]. The probe later expanded to include local officials.
Cause of the Fire
Authorities believe the fire was likely caused by sparklers attached to champagne bottles igniting flammable ceiling insulation [Wikipedia].
Compensation for Victims
The Swiss government has announced it will provide compensation to all victims of the fire, totaling approximately 55,000 euros per person. For those who died, the compensation will be paid to their relatives [Strait Times]. Around 8.5 million euros will be allocated to the 156 victims [Strait Times].