The manager of a Swiss ski resort bar where a fire claimed 41 lives has revealed that she warned of the risk of such a tragedy six years before the incident. Jessica Moretti, 41, and her husband Jacques, 49, both face manslaughter charges related to the fire that broke out during a New Year’s Eve party at Le Constellation in Crans-Montana, Switzerland.

In a 2019 WhatsApp message to staff obtained by investigators, Moretti cautioned that the use of sparklers inside the venue could lead to a fire. She reportedly wrote, “If they hold the sparklers up and scorch the ceiling, the Constel will burn down.” This message was sent four years before the fatal blaze occurred.

The fire erupted when a waitress at the bar raised sparklers toward the ceiling, igniting flammable decoration materials. The rapidly spreading fire resulted in extensive casualties and injuries among the partygoers gathered to celebrate the New Year.

Victims’ legal representatives have cited Moretti’s earlier warning as evidence that the accused were aware of the fire hazard but failed to take sufficient preventive measures. They argue that this knowledge justifies upgrading the charges against the couple from manslaughter to murder. The prosecution and defense have yet to comment on the suggestion.

The investigation continues as Swiss authorities examine how the fire began and whether safety regulations for the venue were adequately enforced. The case has raised broader concerns about fire safety and risk management practices in hospitality establishments, particularly in settings involving fireworks or sparklers.