The Station nightclub fire on the evening of Thursday, February 20, 2003, was the fourth deadliest nightclub fire in U.S. history, killing 100 people and injuring more than 200. Ninety-six perished on the night of the fire, and four died later from their injuries at local hospitals. The Station, which regularly hosted hair metal and 80s rock bands, was a nightclub in West Warwick in Kent County in the state of Rhode Island.
The fire started about 11:08 PM, just seconds into headlining band Great White's opening song "Desert Moon", when pyrotechnics set off by their tour manager, Daniel Biechele, lit flammable soundproofing foam behind the stage. The flames were first thought to be part of the act; only as the fire reached the ceiling and smoke began to billow did people realize it was uncontrolled. In less than a minute, the entire stage was engulfed in flames. The ensuing stampede in the inferno led to a crush for the door resulting in numerous deaths and injuries among the patrons and staff, who numbered somewhat more than 404, the highest of three conflicting official capacity limits. Among those who perished in the fire was Great White's lead guitarist, Ty Longley.
More on [ The Station nightclub fire ]
Great White :: G
Longley, Ty :: L
Disasters :: United States
Fires :: Disasters

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Angels Of Rhode Island - Online memorials for those who were lost in the fire, and photos of memorials placed at the site.
In Loving Memory of Jeff Rader - Tribute to the roadie from the site of his employer, rock band Tesla.
Melodic Rock: Rhode Island Condolence Page - Message board for condolences for the family and friends of those killed, from the website that sponsored Great White's tour.
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Prairie Home Companion: White Flash - Song about the fire by Garrison Keillor, which he sung on his radio program. Lyrics and RealAudio.
Roadie.net - Great White Fire - Weblog from the industry point of view. Information about roadies Jeff Rader (who died in the fire) and Robert Rager (who suffered burns).
Meta Description: [ Roadie.net - True Stories from the road - A site for Roadies, Ex-Roadies, and anyone who ever wanted to be a Roadie ]
State of Rhode Island: The Station Fire - Listing of information for victims and families, volunteer opportunities, and memorial events.
Meta Description: [ Governor Donald L. Carcieri ]
Station Family Fund Home - An all-volunteer, non-profit organization, founded to offer assistance and relief to people directly affected by the fire.
TheBostonChannel.com: Rhode Island Nightclub Fire Kills Dozens - Message board for condolences.
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