CMU Daily reports that Clear Channel have settled with the families of the 100 victims of the 'Great White' tragedy in 2003 at the Station Club in Rhode Island, New York, in a case that will send alarm bells through the US live industry.

CMU Daily reports that Clear Channel have settled with the families of the 100 victims of the 'Great White' tragedy in 2003 at the Station Club in Rhode Island, New York, in a case that will send alarm bells through the US live industry. 

Pyrotechnics ignited by the band Great White set fire to the sound-proofed interior of the Station Club leaving one hundred people dead, including one member of the band.

One of the lawsuits launched by lawyers for the victims of the fire was aimed at Clear Channel's WHJY-FM who had pre-promoted the concert by running ads, giving away tickets and providing a DJ to MC the night. The settlement now on the table will apparently cost the radio conglomerate $22million, and will take the monies so far won for victims of the fire to $70m - following settlements with others accused of liability in the fire - including the maker and seller of the soundproofing material that caught fire, the maker of the pyros, and a TV company whose camera man was accused of blocking a fire exit.

Other lawsuits, including one against the band themselves, rumble on. Clear Channel said that whilst it "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." Clear Channel were keen to stress that the pay out does not mean that they accept any liability for the fire but the settlement could have an impact on other radio stations who enter into similar co-promotional relationships and who may now look for reassurances from promoters and venues that all safety issues have been addressed.