14th Person Charged in Crans-Montana New Year's Eve Fire That Killed 41

The employee had initially been heard as a PADR, an intermediate status between witness and accused in Swiss legal proceedings. The decision to change this status suggests prosecutors believe there is sufficient evidence to implicate the individual in the case.

This development brings the total number of accused to 14, including the Moretti couple, five current or former elected officials, and seven municipal employees. The case has drawn significant attention in Switzerland due to the high death toll and questions about building safety regulations.

Background of the Tragedy

The fire broke out at Bar Le Constellation during New Year's Eve celebrations, trapping revelers inside the packed venue. The blaze resulted in one of Switzerland's deadliest building fires in recent history, with 41 fatalities and 115 injuries reported.

Investigators have focused on the 2015 renovations at the bar, which the newly accused employee had monitored while working for Chermignon's building department. The consolidation of Crans-Montana's municipalities in 2017 added complexity to determining responsibility for building oversight.

The case has highlighted concerns about fire safety standards in Swiss nightlife venues and the accountability of municipal officials. Prosecutors continue to examine whether proper protocols were followed during the bar's renovations and subsequent inspections.