Digital Extra: The Station Fire

03:54 PM EST on Monday, February 20, 2006

Staff report

Jeffrey and Michael Derderian, co-owners of The Station nightclub, have issued the following statement on today's third anniversary of the disastrous fire in West Warwick:

"We are ever mindful that despite the passage of time, so many of us, in our state and beyond, still suffer tremendous heartache and loss. And so, above all, this is a day about remembering our close friends, our co-workers, and our fellow Rhode Islanders and New Englanders who were affected by the terrible fire that occurred on February 20, 2003.

"We offer our sincerest prayers and condolences to all those involved with this horrible tragedy.

"Finally, no words could express the deep gratitude we feel for the people - many of whom we have never met - who have continued to offer their support to us."

The Derderian brothers face criminal charges and civil suits stemming from the blaze -- the worst in the state's history -- which killed 100 people and injured more than 200.

The Cowesett Avenue site of the fire was the scene today for relatives, friends and community members to remember the fire's victims. Some said prayers, others paused at home-made markers that have become the main feature of the site.

A memorial observance was held there yesterday afternoon.