Bosses of a Swiss bar where a tragic New Year’s blaze claimed 40 lives shared a heartbreaking account of a waitress they considered family, who tragically perished “in a mass of bodies behind a locked door.”
In their most detailed narration of the incident, Jacques and Jessica Moretti recounted the harrowing final moments of Cyane Panine at Le Constellation in the ski resort of Crans-Montana. The evening took a devastating turn when a fire broke out, likely ignited by pyrotechnics in the ceiling, resulting in severe burns for 116 individuals in addition to the fatalities.
Mr. Moretti, 49, managed to force open the basement door, discovering Ms. Panine amidst a group of unconscious individuals. The door, typically not locked from the inside, posed a significant obstacle during the rescue effort. Currently facing potential charges, including manslaughter, Mr. Moretti remains in custody while his wife, Jessica, has been released on bail pending further legal proceedings.
Describing Ms. Panine as a cherished individual close to their hearts, Mr. Moretti expressed the shock and sorrow of witnessing her tragic end. Despite efforts to revive her, Ms. Panine succumbed to her injuries, leaving loved ones and friends devastated by the loss.
The Morettis, who extensively renovated the bar they rented in 2015, emphasized that safety measures, such as fire extinguishers and a sprinkler system, were absent. They admitted to a lack of formal fire safety training for employees, highlighting the routine use of champagne sparklers, which were deemed safe until the tragic incident unfolded.
Questions have arisen about the age of patrons present during the fire, particularly concerning underage individuals. While the bar enforced age restrictions, lapses in adherence to these rules are under scrutiny. The couple, originally from Corsica, faces allegations of negligent manslaughter and other charges, which they vehemently deny.
The tragedy has deeply affected the community, with Ms. Panine’s funeral held in her hometown as loved ones mourn her untimely passing. Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the fire continue, as authorities seek answers to prevent such tragedies in the future.