The proprietors of the Swiss bar where a tragic fire claimed the lives of 40 individuals on New Year’s have been living under police protection, as recently revealed. Jacques Moretti and his wife Jessica are receiving security measures due to escalating public outrage following the incident that resulted in the deaths of 20 children, some as young as 14, and left 116 others injured. Mr. Moretti’s father, Jean, confirmed the security arrangements while defending his son and daughter-in-law against charges of negligence-related manslaughter, bodily harm, and arson.
Mr. Moretti Snr expressed that while his son bears responsibility due to his company’s involvement, guilt is yet to be determined by the justice system. He emphasized their willingness to face the legal consequences and asserted the family’s integrity, stating they are not criminals but deeply affected individuals mourning the loss of loved ones.
Describing Jacques as a diligent worker profoundly impacted by the tragedy, Jean revealed his son’s emotional turmoil, highlighting the family’s perpetual sorrow over the incident. Jacques was placed in pre-trial detention after questioning by prosecutors, while Jessica was questioned and subsequently released.
During a national day of mourning in Switzerland, Jessica expressed her deep sorrow and sympathy for the victims and their families, acknowledging the unimaginable tragedy that transpired in their establishment. The investigation into the fire’s origins points to champagne bottles with party sparklers as the potential cause, igniting flammable foam in the bar’s basement.
The ongoing probe will scrutinize the responsibilities of both the bar owners and authorities, noting a lack of fire safety inspections since 2019. The tragedy, which affected individuals of 19 nationalities, resulted in 83 victims remaining hospitalized. Survivors delivered poignant speeches at a memorial service, evoking emotions from attendees, including French President Emmanuel Macron.
The survivors recounted the harrowing experience at the bar, emphasizing the need for resilience and unity in the face of adversity. The service included a minute of silence in remembrance of the victims, with widespread community support and solidarity demonstrated throughout the nation.
President of the Valais State Council, Mathias Reynard, expressed heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the deceased, vowing never to forget the lives lost in the tragic incident.