Crans-Montana, Switzerland – A bar owner was detained Friday in connection with the New Year's Eve fire that killed 40 in Crans-Montana. Swiss prosecutors arrested Jacques Moretti, a French national, citing flight risk. The arrest came after a national day of mourning for the victims.
The fire ripped through "Le Constellation" bar on New Year's Eve. Witnesses described the scene as "apocalyptic." Church bells tolled across Switzerland Friday in remembrance. The memorial service concluded just before news of Moretti's detention broke.
Families of the victims had been demanding action. Anger has grown within the community since the tragedy. Moretti and his wife, Jessica, are suspected of manslaughter by negligence, bodily harm by negligence, and arson by negligence.
The investigation is ongoing. Authorities will determine the cause of the fire. The focus remains on supporting the grieving families and community.
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