The tragic fire at “Le Constellation” bar has left many questions surrounding the actions of its management during the calamity. As investigations progressed, we learned key details from the hearings held on February 11 and 12, where the owners, Jessica and Jacques Moretti, were questioned in the presence of victims’ families.
## The Events of the Night
### Rapid Spread of the Fire
During the hearings, Jacques Moretti expressed deep sorrow over the incident. He stated, “No parent should have to go through this,” as he addressed the mother of two young women who suffered serious injuries. He explained that the foam material that ignited was purchased from a local DIY store, and while the packaging had annotations, nothing alerted him to potential hazards. Jacques emphasized that the fire escalated so swiftly that panic ensued, which hampered any sensible response. “The most important thing was to evacuate the establishment,” he added, highlighting the chaos that overwhelmed staff and patrons alike.
## Jessica Moretti’s Testimony
### Did She Flee?
Jessica Moretti faced questioning regarding her actions the night of the fire, particularly the allegation that she fled the scene. Although she did not immediately utilize a fire extinguisher, Jessica stated, “I wanted to call the firefighters. In my mind, that’s what could save the most people.” She explained her intention to return after ensuring that guests were evacuated, suggesting that her priority was to raise the alarm rather than to battle the flames directly. Overwhelmed by emotion, she admitted, “I didn’t do anything. We stayed on the scene dealing with the chaos.”
### Addressing Security Concerns
When questioned about security measures, particularly the absence of a security guard at the time of the incident, Jessica reflected on her responsibilities as a co-manager. “We are not infallible,” she remarked, acknowledging the mistakes that might have contributed to the tragedy. Despite the seriousness of the situation, she maintained that she had checked identifications to ensure compliance with regulations regarding underage patrons in the establishment.
## Conclusion
The hearings revealed a complex picture of the chaos and confusion on that tragic evening. The inability to execute a proper evacuation plan, combined with the rapid spread of the fire, escalated the situation to an uncontrollable level. This incident serves as a reminder of the critical importance of safety protocols in places of public gathering. As the investigation continues, there is hope that lessons learned from this tragedy can help prevent future disasters and save lives.