Jacques Moretti, co-owner of the Le Constellation bar in the Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana, has been arrested and placed in pre-trial detention over allegations of domestic violence against his wife, Jessica Moretti. The couple already face manslaughter and negligent arson charges over a New Year's Eve fire that gutted their bar, killing 41 people and injuring 115, most of them teenagers. The new arrest adds fresh legal jeopardy for Moretti, a convicted pimp with a prior jail term, and comes as the couple continue to deny wrongdoing in the fire case.

The alleged assault took place on 11 August at the couple's home in the Wallis canton, reportedly leaving Jessica Moretti, 41, hospitalised; Jacques Moretti, 49, was subsequently arrested and detained to await a separate court appearance later this year. Their lawyers said the incident belongs to a distinct private matter and should not be conflated with the Constellation tragedy, in which 16 people, including local councillors, face charges. The blaze is believed to have started when sparklers in champagne bottles ignited soundproofing foam, with the Morettis blaming a waitress who also died in the fire; Jacques Moretti was previously held and released on bail of roughly £200,000 over the fire case.