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SMS messages reveal bar owners had prior knowledge of insulation hazards before the fire.
The Crans-Montana fire investigation has deepened with evidence that the Moretti couple exchanged SMS messages discussing ceiling insulation hazards at Le Constellation bar prior to the New Year's Eve disaster that killed 41 people.
Fourteen individuals are under investigation for negligence in connection with the fire, with questioning of the bar owners focusing on these communications. The messages suggest prior awareness of a safety risk that investigators believe may have contributed to the tragedy.
The discovery represents a significant development in establishing liability. The correspondence indicates the owners had knowledge of the insulation issue before the fire, a detail that prosecutors argue strengthens negligence charges against Jacques and Jessica Moretti and other defendants in the case.
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Messages establish bar owners' knowledge of safety defects
The SMS exchanges demonstrate the Morettis were aware of ceiling insulation risks before the fire, strengthening negligence arguments. This prior knowledge, combined with fourteen individuals under investigation, suggests a pattern of inadequate safety response. The messages directly contradict claims of negligent oversight, instead indicating deliberate awareness of hazards.
Messages show concerns were discussed but context unclear
While SMS messages existed discussing insulation, the full context and actions taken in response remain unclear. The investigation's expansion to fourteen individuals reflects the complexity of assigning responsibility. Prior discussion of hazards does not automatically establish criminal negligence without evidence that specific risks directly caused the fire or that no remedial steps were considered.