100 Lives Lost 23 Years Ago In West Warwick Station Nightclub Fire

WEST WARWICK, RI — Friday marked the 23rd anniversary of the Station Nightclub fire that claimed 100 lives.

"Today, we remember the 100 lives lost in the Station nightclub fire, and the hundreds more forever changed on that tragic day 23 years ago," Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee posted on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter.

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"We hold the families in our hearts and extend our enduring gratitude to the first responders whose courage will never be forgotten," McKee said.

The blaze broke out during a Great White concert at the club.

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"The fire, which broke out on Feb. 20, 2003, was caused by pyrotechnics set off by the tour manager of the band, Great White," a WCVB story said. "The pyrotechnics ignited flammable sound insulation foam in the walls and ceilings surrounding the stage."

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In addition to the 100 killed, 200 were injured, Newport Buzz reported.

"The tragedy forced sweeping changes nationwide. Fire codes were strengthened," the Newport Buzz story said. "Sprinkler systems became mandatory in many venues. Pyrotechnics in small clubs were effectively banned. The lessons were written in law — and in grief."

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"A memorial now sits where the nightclub used to be," per WPRI.

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