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Snapshot 3:Sun, Jan 4, 2026 5:27:09 PM GMT last edited by Brian

Swiss Bar Fire Death Toll: 24 Identified, Managers Investigated

Swiss Bar Fire Death Toll: 24 Identified, Managers ProbedInvestigated

Swiss Bar Fire Death Toll: 24 Identified, Managers Investigated
Above: Mourners gather in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, on Jan. 3, 2026. Image credit: Harold Cunningham/Getty Images

The Spin

Crans-Montana isn't an anomaly. Resort towns repeatedly recreate the same lethal setup: packed nightlife, flammable interiors, narrow exits and peak-season pressure to maximize profit. Whether or not criminal charges stick, this fire follows a known pattern seen for decades. Treating it as bad luck misses the point. It's a warning that fire rules, inspections and capacity limits must be enforced before physics and panic do it for us.

While restaurant fires are a widespread phenomenon, this seems more to do with the owners than the system. The Moretti's renovated Le Constellation, chose its materials, layout and operating practices, and oversaw a venue later described as a death trap. Prior inspections were infrequent, safety claims conflict with the law and sparklers near flammable ceilings were tolerated. Jacques' alleged criminal past further highlights him as a suspect who cares little for the safety of those he's supposed to protect.


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All rights reserved.

Version 6.18.0