E2 nightclub building where 21 died in 2003 will not be torn down: Chicago Landmark Commission

ByABC7 Chicago Digital Team WLS logo
Friday, November 8, 2024 4:57PM
E2 nightclub building where 21 died in 2003 will not be torn down
E2 nightclub building where 21 died in 2003 will not be torn downThe E2 nightclub building, where 21 died in a 2003 stampede on South Michigan in Chicago, will not be torn down, the Landmark Commission said.

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A Chicago building that was the site of a deadly nightclub tragedy will not be torn down.

On Thursday, the Chicago Landmarks Commission made its final decision, denying a request to demolish the former E2 nightclub.

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In 2003, there was a stampede at the club, after someone used pepper spray. Twenty one people died.

SEE MORE: Public to weigh in Thursday on demolition permit for site of E2 nightclub tragedy

Families of the victims have said they want the building torn down and a memorial built in its place. But the Landmarks Commission voted Thursday to preserve the building because of its connection to the city's historic Motor Row District.

It was built as a showroom for automobiles along Michigan Avenue, marking Chicago's involvement in developing the American auto industry.

The building at 2347 S. Michigan Ave. has been vacant since the disaster.

A developer purchased the Motor Row building in 2021, and wanted to replace it with a 21-story development.

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