The Proposal to Expand Le Constellation Bar
In December 2025, the managers of Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana submitted a request to expand their terrace. This request included the controversial removal of a side exit, a decision that, in hindsight, raises significant safety concerns given the tragic events that transpired. Since the French couple Moretti took over the establishment 16 years ago, they have repeatedly engaged in public inquiries and authorization requests regarding their operations, highlighting an extensive but troubling history of regulatory compliance.
A Preventable Tragedy?
Reports indicate that the expansion was set to begin in 2026 and aimed to enlarge the bar’s covered terrace. However, many anecdotal accounts and social media footage from that fateful New Year’s Eve indicate that the removal of the side exit could have further complicated escape routes for patrons at a time when every second counted.
Design Flaws and Regulatory Non-compliance
Old floor plans reveal that the bar’s interior door, which was only 1.5 meters wide, opened in the wrong direction—against the flow of potential evacuation. According to Swiss safety regulations, doors should open towards exits in case of emergencies, an oversight that could critically endanger patrons’ lives in emergency situations.
In 2015, after the Morettis acquired the establishment, extensive modifications were undertaken. These renovations included changes to the terrace and stairway configurations, alongside soundproofing materials. However, troubling evidence suggests that no public inquiry was conducted regarding the internal layout of the bar. Furthermore, the necessary building permits were filed post-facto, after an excavator had already commenced work. This critical lapse, led by the building’s Swiss owner rather than the Morettis, raises serious questions about regulatory diligence and accountability.
The Impact of the Fire
On New Year’s Eve, a catastrophic fire broke out at Le Constellation, resulting in the tragic loss of 40 lives, including 20 minors—among them, nine French nationals. An additional 119 individuals suffered injuries, making this incident one of the deadliest fires in recent Swiss history.
Criminal Investigations and Consequences
As a direct result of the fire, authorities have launched a criminal investigation against the Moretti couple, charging them with “negligent homicide, negligent bodily harm, and negligent arson.” This unfortunate situation underscores the deadly ramifications of regulatory negligence and inadequate safety planning.
Conclusion
The requests to expand the Le Constellation bar represent not only a desire for business growth but also an oversight in safety that turned tragic. Discussions surrounding architectural integrity, regulatory compliance, and proactive safety measures have never been more crucial. As this sad chapter in Crans-Montana’s history unfolds, it serves as a grim reminder of the importance of rigorous safety regulations in public spaces. The narrative of the Moretti couple and their bar raises urgent questions about accountability in the hospitality industry, as well as the overarching need for a cultural shift towards prioritizing safety above all else.