A tragic incident unfolded at a bar in Switzerland during New Year celebrations, where a bar worker accidentally triggered a fatal fire due to lack of safety training, as asserted by her family’s legal representative.
The individual, identified as Cyane Panine, was captured on camera holding champagne bottles with sparklers while seated on a colleague’s shoulders. Despite being one of the 40 victims who perished in the fire, Panine was reportedly unaware of the fire hazard caused by the ignited ceiling.
The French owners of Le Constellation bar, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, are facing accusations of negligence leading to manslaughter, bodily harm, and arson in connection with the incident that claimed 40 lives and injured 116 individuals in Crans-Montana.
According to Sophie Haenni, the lawyer representing Panine’s family, the bar worker was not originally assigned to serve tables that night but was requested to assist with the high demand, leading to her presence near the hazardous area. Haenni emphasized that Panine had not received any safety training or warnings regarding the dangers posed by the ceiling.
Haenni highlighted that adherence to safety regulations, especially concerning materials and inspections, could have prevented the tragic outcome, labeling Panine as a victim of the circumstances. The family’s legal statement also mentioned Panine feeling exploited and struggling with her working conditions, expressing disappointment at the lack of empathy from her employers.
The lawyers representing Panine’s family emphasized the profound loss suffered by the family, describing Panine as a cherished individual taken away unjustly. The legal representatives of Jacques and Jessica Moretti were approached for their comments by the BBC.
Recent developments include a travel ban imposed on Jessica Moretti as an alternative to pre-trial detention, while Jacques Moretti remains in custody for a 90-day period. Initial investigations suggest that the fire was initiated by sparklers setting fire to soundproof material lining the ceiling.