Demolition Begins of E2 Nightclub Building in Chicago

Demolition has commenced on the building that formerly housed the E2 nightclub in Chicago, site of a deadly stampede in 2003 that resulted in 21 fatalities. City officials issued an emergency demolition order after discovering significant structural issues, including a collapsed roof and hazardous conditions that posed risks to public safety. This decision comes despite a previous denial from the Chicago Commission on Landmarks, which had sought to preserve the historic building. The E2 nightclub became notorious for the tragedy, which unfolded when security personnel used pepper spray, leading to a chaotic evacuation that caused many to be trampled. The building owner, Randy Shifrin, had proposed developing affordable housing and a memorial for the victims, but preservationists initially opposed the demolition. The site has remained vacant for over two decades, with families of the victims advocating for its removal and a memorial to honor those lost.