A tragic incident occurred in Switzerland where a bar worker, Cyane Panine, unintentionally ignited a deadly fire during New Year’s celebrations. Panine, who lacked safety training, was reportedly unaware of the fire hazard posed by the ceiling that caught fire. The blaze claimed the lives of 40 individuals and left 116 others injured in the Alpine ski resort of Crans-Montana.
Authorities have leveled accusations against the French owners of Le Constellation bar, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, for manslaughter, bodily harm, and arson due to negligence. Panine’s family lawyer, Sophie Haenni, revealed that Panine was not assigned to serve tables that night but was asked to assist downstairs due to high demand. Haenni emphasized that Panine had not been informed of the ceiling’s danger nor received any safety training.
Haenni argued that had safety protocols been followed, including material standards and necessary inspections, the tragic consequences could have been avoided, asserting Panine as a victim of circumstances. The family’s legal representation further highlighted Panine’s dissatisfaction with her working conditions and lack of support from her employers.
The statement by Panine’s legal team underlined the emotional toll on the family due to the loss of their daughter and expressed disappointment in the employers’ handling of the situation. In response to these developments, Jessica Moretti faced a travel ban as an alternative to pre-trial detention, expressing regret over the tragic incident. Meanwhile, Jacques Moretti remains in custody as investigations indicate that the fire was likely caused by sparklers igniting the ceiling’s soundproof foaming material.