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Rhode Island club fire claims 100th life
A woman who suffered severe burns more than two months ago in a fast-moving Rhode Island nightclub fire is now the blaze's 100th fatality, according to Boston's Massachusetts General Hospital.
Pamela Gruttadauria of Johnston, R.I.--who had been hospitalized in critical condition since the Feb. 20 fire at The Station in West Warwick, R.I.--died at about 10 p.m. on Sunday (5/4), the hospital announced.
Four victims of The Station fire remained hospitalized at Massachusetts General Hospital on Monday morning (5/5). One is in critical condition, one is in serious condition and two are in fair condition. One victim remained in good condition on Monday morning at Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, according to that facility's website.
The blaze broke out shortly after '80s-era rockers Great White opened a concert at the club. Investigators supsect that the fire was caused when the band's pyrotechnics ignited soundproofing foam that was attached the club's walls and ceiling.
The fire completely engulfed the club within minutes, and about 200 victims were hospitalized in the wake of the blaze.
Great White, the State of Rhode Island and the nightclub's owners are all targets of lawsuits stemming from the tragedy.
The Providence Journal reported on Monday that the burned-out remains of the club were expected to be completely removed by mid week. The final phases of the demolition reportedly had been delayed as attorneys continued to sift through the rubble for evidence.
Last week, Great White announced plans to embark on a 55-city tour this summer to raise money for the victims of the fire.
