Italy Recalls Ambassador Over Swiss Bar Fire Suspect Release

Diplomatic Crisis Erupts Over Crans-Montana Tragedy

Italy has escalated a diplomatic confrontation with Switzerland by recalling its ambassador and lodging formal protests after Swiss authorities released the co-owner of a nightclub where a devastating New Year's Day fire killed 40 people. The move represents one of the most serious diplomatic rifts between the neighboring countries in recent years.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani ordered Ambassador Gian Lorenzo Cornado to return to Rome for consultations and formally protested the decision to release Jacques Moretti, the French co-owner of Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana. Moretti was released on Friday after posting bail of 200,000 Swiss francs (approximately €215,000).

'An Affront to the Memory of the Victims'

The Italian government expressed 'strong indignation' over the release, calling it 'an affront to the memory of the victims and an insult to their families.' In an official statement, Meloni and Tajani emphasized that 'all of Italy calls for truth and justice and demands respectful measures in the aftermath of this disaster.'

The fire on January 1, 2026, at Le Constellation bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana killed 40 people and injured 116 others, with 83 suffering severe burns. Six of the victims were Italian nationals, and ten other Italians were injured in the tragedy.

Safety Concerns and Investigation

Investigators believe the fire started when pyrotechnic sparklers attached to champagne bottles ignited flammable acoustic foam on the ceiling, causing a rapid flashover that engulfed the crowded bar within seconds. The venue was reportedly overcrowded with more than 100 people when the fire broke out around 1:26 AM during New Year celebrations.

Swiss authorities had opened a criminal investigation against Moretti and his wife Jessica for negligent homicide, bodily harm, and arson. Moretti was initially arrested on January 9, with prosecutors citing a significant flight risk. However, a Swiss court approved his release on bail this week.

Italian authorities have raised concerns about potential evidence tampering and the risk that Moretti might flee. 'There is a risk that the bar owner could flee and that evidence could be endangered,' the Italian statement noted.

Victims' Families React

Relatives of the victims have expressed confusion and anger over the release decision. Many share Italy's concerns about evidence preservation and justice for their loved ones. The tragedy has particularly affected young people, with half of the victims reportedly under 18 years old.

The fire has raised serious questions about safety regulations in Swiss nightlife venues. The bar's fire safety had last been inspected over six years ago, according to the mayor of Crans-Montana. The Morettis had previously faced legal issues, including a 2020 investigation into misuse of COVID-19 relief funds and Jacques Moretti's prior convictions in France for fraud and 'aggravated pimping.'

Italy's diplomatic action represents a significant escalation in what has become an international tragedy with cross-border implications. The recall of an ambassador is typically reserved for serious disputes between nations and signals Rome's determination to pursue justice for its citizens affected by the disaster.

Sources: Politico EU, Wikipedia, NBC News