More than 200 people affected by Rhode Island's deadliest nightclub fire are suing the state, club owners, Budwesier, makers of foam soundproofing material, an insurance company and other defendants, alleging that their carelessness and negligence are to blame for 100 deaths and dozens of injuries.
The lawsuit was filed on July 23 on behalf of 146 survivors and the family members of 80 people who died, the largest wave of plaintiffs yet to sue over the Feb. 20, 2003 blaze at The Station nightclub in West Warwick. It seeks monetary damages but does not specify an amount.
The lawsuit in Providence Superior Court follows a criminal indictment and at least six previous lawsuits that have been consolidated in federal court. The latest lawsuit also is expected to be moved to federal court.
