The French owner of the Swiss bar where 40 people died in a New Year's Eve fire has told investigators that a service door was locked from the inside. Jacques Moretti, co-owner of the Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, was taken into custody on Friday as prosecutors investigate the tragedy.
Moretti told the Valais public prosecutor's office that he forced open the door after arriving at the scene and found several people lying behind it. Most of the 40 victims were teenagers, and 116 others were injured.
Initial findings suggest the fire was caused by sparklers coming into contact with soundproofing foam on the ceiling. Moretti said he bought the foam at a DIY store and installed it himself during renovations in 2015. He claimed tests showed the candles were not powerful enough to ignite the foam.
Questions are being raised about the presence and accessibility of fire extinguishers and whether exits complied with regulations. Moretti's wife and co-owner, Jessica, was released after Friday's hearing.
Regarding underage patrons, Moretti said the bar prohibited anyone under 16 and required those aged 16-18 to be accompanied by an adult. He acknowledged a possible lapse in protocol. The couple is suspected of negligent homicide, negligent bodily harm, and negligent arson.
