The parents of a waitress who tragically died in a fire at a Swiss bar are speaking out against those blaming their daughter for the incident. Cyane Panine, known as ‘the girl in the helmet,’ was captured in a video holding champagne bottles with lit sparklers just moments before the blaze that claimed her life along with 40 others on New Year’s Day. Over 100 individuals sustained injuries, some with severe burns.
According to investigators, the fire was sparked by pyrotechnics that set off flammable soundproofing foam on the bar’s low ceiling, engulfing the venue in flames within less than a minute.
Her mother, describing Cyane as a trusting and vibrant individual, expressed sorrow over her daughter’s untimely death. Her father, a water conservation expert, rejected the notion of Cyane being remembered solely for the helmet and sparklers.
Eyewitnesses recounted the chaos as the fire rapidly spread, trapping patrons inside the bar. The bar owners, Jacques and Jessica Moretti, are facing criminal charges for negligence leading to death. Allegations include locked emergency exits and improperly installed flammable ceiling foam without required safety inspections. The bar had not undergone a fire safety check since 2019.
Despite the Morettis’ initial statement portraying Cyane as almost family, her parents criticized them for attempting to distance themselves from liability. The couple denies any knowledge of the risks posed by the foam or encouraging the use of sparklers by staff.
Jacques Moretti, previously detained for three months due to his criminal history, was released on bail, while Jessica Moretti is prohibited from leaving Switzerland during the ongoing investigation. Their lawyer assured cooperation with authorities’ requests.
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