Bar Owner's Agonizing Wait: 'Tried to save waitress for an hour'

Jacques Moretti, owner of Le Constellation bar, shared his harrowing experience attempting to save a waitress for over an hour following a devastating New Year's fire. The blaze claimed 40 lives and injured 116. Moretti and his wife, Jessica, are now facing negligence charges. The investigation suggests the fire began in the basement when champagne sparklers ignited sound insulation foam, causing a rapid flashover.

Moretti recounted arriving to find the bar engulfed in smoke and a locked back door. He and others forced it open, discovering unconscious victims inside, including his daughter-in-law, whom they attempted to rescue. The couple's testimony emerged ten days after the tragedy. They have expressed devastation and pledged full cooperation, with their thoughts with the victims.

Questions have arisen regarding safety measures at the bar, including claims of underage drinking despite stated policies. The owners stated that fire extinguishers were present, but no automatic sprinkler system was installed, and staff had not received specific fire safety training. While fire inspections had occurred previously, no modifications were mandated.