At a Great White concert held at The Station nightclub in West Warwick, Rhode Island, a pyrotechnics display intended to enhance the performance triggered a devastating fire. The outdoor surrounding of the building and the highly flammable soundproofing material on the walls made for a lethal combination. Fire spread rapidly through the club, engulfing it in flames and smoke, and leading to chaos as concertgoers attempted to escape. As many as 462 people were present during the performance, and the emergency exit was blocked by the crowd as panic ensued, making it difficult for many to find a safe way out.

Local emergency crews responded to the scene as quickly as possible, but the scale of the fire caused significant difficulties in rescue efforts. Ultimately, 100 people perished, and over 200 were injured, with some sustaining severe burns and smoke inhalation. This devastating incident led to an in-depth investigation into safety practices in nightclubs and similar venues across the United States. Numerous lawsuits followed, spotlighting the legal responsibilities of venue owners regarding fire safety policies and regulations.

In the aftermath, many states and local governments implemented stricter fire safety laws, focusing on the importance of evacuation plans and routine inspections for public entertainment venues. The Station fire not only memorialized the victims but also initiated crucial conversations about how to better protect those attending live performances, ensuring that such a tragedy would not happen again.