A Swiss court on Monday ordered that the co-owner of a bar in the upscale ski resort of Crans-Montana that caught fire on New Year's Day, killing 40 people, must remain in custody.

The court said in a statement that Jacques Moretti will be held for a provisional period of three months, which could be extended if measures are taken to mitigate the risk of flight, such as a security deposit.

Emergency personnel work at the site of an explosion and fire at the Le Constellation bar, in the upscale ski resort of Crans-Montana in southwestern Switzerland, January 1, 2026
Emergency personnel work at the site of an explosion and fire at the Le Constellation bar, in the upscale ski resort of Crans-Montana in southwestern Switzerland, January 1, 2026 (credit: REUTERS/DENIS BALIBOUSE)

Prosecutors leave pending decision

Prosecutors for the Valais canton initially ordered the detention of Jacques Moretti on Friday after a lengthy hearing with him and his wife, Jessica, pending a decision on whether it was warranted.

The couple has expressed their grief over the fire and said they would cooperate fully with the investigation.