GENEVA (AP) — A Swiss court has ordered a three-month pretrial detention for Jacques Moretti, a manager of Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, following a tragic fire that erupted during a New Year’s Eve celebration. The inferno claimed the lives of 40 individuals, primarily young partygoers, and left 116 others injured, many suffering serious injuries.

The compulsory measures court in the Valais canton determined that Moretti should be detained due to concerns over a potential “flight risk,” which was emphasized by prosecutors during the proceedings. In a statement, the court indicated that they may consider lifting the detention after three months if appropriate “security measures,” including the possibility of bail, are put in place. Until those arrangements are finalized, Moretti will remain in custody.

Lawyer Patrick Michod, representing Moretti, did not respond to multiple email requests for comments on this matter. His secretary noted that Michod was not available for immediate comment. Moretti and his wife, Jessica, are listed as the owners of the bar according to a Swiss business registry. In a separate statement, lawyers for Jessica Moretti expressed optimism that the court’s decision would ultimately enable her husband to regain his freedom once the necessary conditions are met.

Swiss authorities have initiated a criminal investigation into the Moretti couple, who are suspected of involuntary homicide, causing bodily harm, and inadvertently starting a fire. Investigators have indicated that the fire was likely ignited by sparkling candles that were positioned too close to the fire-retardant soundproofing material on the ceiling. The investigation is focused on determining if the soundproofing adhered to safety regulations and whether the use of candles was permissible in the bar.

Concern has also been raised regarding fire safety inspections, which have not been conducted since 2019. This lapse in safety oversight has attracted significant attention, particularly in light of the deadly incident. Swiss President Guy Parmelin expressed the nation's distress by stating that Switzerland was “appalled” by the incident, emphasizing the gravity of the tragedy and its impact on the local community and beyond.

The Crans-Montana fire has sparked widespread outrage and grief, with many calling for stricter safety regulations in entertainment venues. As investigations continue, more details about the circumstances leading to the fire are expected to emerge, shedding light on potential shortcomings in safety protocols that contributed to this catastrophic event.