Chicago
Twenty-one people were crushed to death this week in a Chicago nightclub, after a brawl sparked hundreds of screaming patrons to rush for the exits. “Everybody smashed; people crying, couldn’t breathe,” said clubgoer Reggie Clark. “Two ladies next to me died.” The stampede began after security guards at the E2 nightclub tried to break up a fight between two women. Someone released a burst of pepper spray, and nearby guests began choking. A lawyer for the club’s owner said people ran in a panic after someone “yelled terrorist attack or poison gas.” The front door jammed as a “mound of people” piled up against it, a witness said. Police said the owner might face charges, as the club was supposed to be closed because it didn’t meet building codes.
Subscribe to The Week
Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.
Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.
