Demolition permit denied for site of tragic stampede 2 decades ago

(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — The Chicago Landmarks Commission has put a halt to plans to demolish the building that once housed the E2 Nightclub where 21 people died in a tragic stampede two decades ago.

Owners of the two-story building at 2347 South Michigan want to tear it down. But the staff of the Commission on Chicago Landmarks says its architectural and historic features contribute to the character of the Motor Row District where it is located. The building once housed a Fiat dealership.

But it is now better known for being the E2 Nightclub, where security staff triggered a deadly rush to the single working door when pepper spray was used to break up a fight in 2003.

The landmarks commission denied the demolition permit, and the tragic history played no role in the decision.

The building at 24th and Michigan is best remembered as the scene of tragedy, but that history wasn't even mentioned as the Commission on Chicago Landmarks denied the permit for demolition. The Commission staff said the building contributes to the character of the historic Motor Row District.

The owner was not represented at the meeting, but a spokesman for 3rd Ward Ald. Pat Dowell said he wanted to put a 21 story building on the site.

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