PROVIDENCE – Local radio station 94 WHJY-FM and parent company Clear Channel Communications Inc. (NYSE: CCU) have reached a tentative $22 million settlement of lawsuits brought by victims and survivors of the fatal nightclub fire five years ago in West Warwick, Clear Channel said today.
“Providence radio station WHJY-FM, Capstar Radio Operating Co. and Clear Channel Broadcasting Inc. have tentatively agreed to pay an aggregate of $22 million in settlement of the claims against them in 13 lawsuits filed as a result of the Feb. 20, 2003, fire at The Station nightclub in West Warwick,” Andy Levin, chief legal officer of Clear Channel Communications, said in a statement this afternoon.
“The lawsuits, which are currently pending in the federal District Court in Providence, allege that WHJY was partially responsible because its DJ introduced the band the night of the fire. The lawsuits name more than 40 other defendants.
“We continue to be deeply saddened by the tremendous harm suffered by the victims, their families and the community as a result of this tragic fire,” Levin said.
“While Clear Channel had no role in causing or contributing to this fire, we are pleased to resolve these claims – and, hopefully, contribute in some way to a sense of resolution for the affected victims and their families.”
Today’s announcement comes nine days after a similar settlement agreement, for $30 million, was announced by WPRI-TV Channel 12. (READ MORE) The settlement is still subject to approval by the court and the plaintiffs.
San Antonio-based Clear Channel Communications Inc. (NYSE: CCU), parent of Clear Channel Broadcasting Inc., is a global media and entertainment company whose properties include local radio stations WHJY-FM, WHJJ-FM, WSNE-FM and WHJJ-AM. For additional information, visit www.clearchannel.com or WHJY.com.
