During an official memorial service today, young survivors of the tragic Swiss New Year fire disaster delivered heartfelt speeches that moved French President Emmanuel Macron to tears.
Marie Albrecht, Aline Morisoli, and Solal Heimendinger, who experienced the harrowing event, took the stage at the ceremony in front of approximately 1,000 attendees, including families of the deceased, rescue personnel, and dignitaries, at the “Le Régent” convention center in Martigny, Switzerland.
Marking a national day of mourning in Switzerland, the event occurred nine days after a devastating fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana claimed the lives of 40 individuals, including 20 children, and left 116 others injured. Among the victims were teenagers as young as 14 and siblings.
Expressing deep emotions, Marie Albrecht stated, “It is with profound emotion that we stand before you. What began as a casual visit to the bar that night turned into a nightmare. The scenes that unfolded before us were unbearable.
“The chaos outside was beyond nightmarish. The piercing cries reverberated in the freezing cold. The stench of burning was overwhelming.”
Aline Morisoli reflected on the challenges faced by their generation, emphasizing resilience and the pursuit of a better world. She remarked, “We are part of a generation grappling with a challenging and often unjust world. Despite this, we persevere. We strive for our beliefs.
“There is much to mend, much to rebuild – we envision a different world. Witness the youth fighting for change. We take pride in your efforts. Keep pushing forward.”
“Every individual fighting for a cause matters, whether their actions are visible or not. Every endeavor is significant. Do not succumb to defeat. Embrace life to the fullest. While we cannot add days to life, we can certainly add more life to days.”
In a gesture of gratitude, fellow survivor Solal Heimendinger expressed appreciation for the emergency services and medical staff, including around 40 firefighters and other responders who received an emotional round of applause inside the venue. Despite snowy conditions, hundreds of spectators gathered at Place du Scandia in Crans-Montana to watch a live broadcast of the service. A nationwide minute of silence honored the victims, accompanied by five minutes of tolling church bells across Switzerland.
Addressing the attendees, Valais State Council President Mathias Reynard conveyed condolences and acknowledged the tragedy that unfolded. He said, “Dear families, dear loved ones, a moment meant for joy and celebration turned into a nightmare. Forty lives were lost, and 116 individuals were harmed, some severely.
“Today, we gather to remember the 40 souls we lost. We pledge never to forget them. Silence alone is inadequate; words must now be spoken. We stand with you – mothers, fathers, siblings, friends.”
Mr. Reynard extended apologies to the victims and the injured, promising a thorough investigation as the least they could do. He added, “Together, we will progress towards a brighter future.”
Speaking to the mourners, Federal President Guy Parmelin lamented the disruption caused by the tragic incident to the hopes of many young individuals. He stated, “Switzerland mourns as a united family in the wake of this calamity.
“Our nation bows in reverence to the memory of those we have lost and stands in solidarity with those embarking on a long journey of recovery.” Mr. Parmelin emphasized that the departed, who perished in a bar named after a star constellation, will forever remain vivid in their memories.
The memorial service took place on a Friday afternoon, shortly after Jacques Moretti, one of the bar owners, was placed in pre-trial detention following questioning by prosecutors. His wife Jessica, also questioned, was subsequently released. The couple faces charges of negligence leading to manslaughter, bodily harm, and arson.
Outside the Public Prosecutors Office in Sion, Mrs. Moretti expressed sorrow, stating, “My thoughts are constantly with the victims and those battling through this ordeal. It is an unimaginable tragedy. We could never have foreseen this. It occurred within our establishment, and for that, I offer my deepest apologies.”
In a statement earlier, the couple had expressed devastation over the incident and pledged full cooperation. They