Deadly fire at Le Constellation bar exposes critical safety failures
An investigation is underway into the deadly fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana. Prosecutors have questioned Georges T., the town's municipal security chief, over missed safety inspections. His mobile phone was seized as part of the evidence-gathering process.
The bar had not been inspected for years due to problems with an IT system upgrade. Georges T. admitted that delays in refreshing control records led to the oversight. He holds a health and safety certification but lacks the specific fire safety qualification required for such oversight.
A locked service door, which could have served as an escape route, remains a point of contention. Investigators are examining whether negligence by the bar's operators or local authorities contributed to the tragedy. Jacques Moretti, co-owner of Le Constellation, has expressed deep sorrow over the fire and its victims.
Further scrutiny has fallen on the qualifications of safety officers in Crans-Montana. Siméon J., who led the safety service until February 2024, had only half a day of training and a woodcutter qualification. Silvan P., responsible for inspections until 2024, also lacked confirmed adequate training. Under VKF fire protection guidelines, venues with over 300 occupants must have a qualified safety officer.
Key questions in the probe include why inspections were missed, how organisational failures occurred, and who bears responsibility.
The investigation continues to focus on potential lapses in safety protocols and oversight. Authorities are reviewing whether proper qualifications were met by those tasked with enforcing fire regulations. The findings will determine if further legal action is warranted.
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