A deadly fire swept through a nightclub in just 90 seconds. I got out

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 8 min read 100% complete January 18, 2026 at 01:08 AM

AI Summary

long article 8 min

In 2003, a fire at The Station nightclub in West Warwick, Rhode Island, killed 100 people after pyrotechnics ignited flammable acoustic foam. Gina Russo, who survived but lost her fiancé, Fred Crisostomi, recounts the rapid spread of the fire and the chaotic escape. In a similar incident, a fire at Le Constellation bar in Crans-Montana, Switzerland, on New Year's Day 2024, claimed 40 lives, also believed to be caused by indoor pyrotechnics and exacerbated by foam panels. Fire investigation consultant Richard Hagger noted the striking similarities between the two tragedies, emphasizing the role of flammable materials in the rapid spread of both fires. The incidents raise concerns about safety regulations and the use of pyrotechnics in enclosed spaces.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

United States 50% Richard Hagger 50% Switzerland 50% Rhode Island 60% Crans-Montana 60% Le Constellation ×270% Great White 70% West Warwick 70% Fred Crisostomi ×380% Gina Russo ×690% The Station nightclub ×395%

Keywords

nightclub fire 100% the station nightclub 90% pyrotechnics 80% foam panels 70% fire safety 70% le constellation 60% burn injuries 60% escape route 50% fire retardant 50%