1990 – Happy Land Social Club Fire: 87 people killed.

An arson attack at the Happy Land social club in the Bronx, New York City, led to a fire that killed 87 people. The incident brought attention to the enforcement of fire safety codes in public venues.

• The Incident: The Happy Land Social Club, an unlicensed club on the second floor of a rundown building, was crowded with mostly Honduran immigrants celebrating Carnival when a fire broke out.

• The Arsonist: Julio Gonzalez, a Cuban refugee, who had an argument with his girlfriend who worked at the club, set the fire by pouring gasoline at the bottom of the staircase and lighting it, effectively trapping people inside.

• The Aftermath: The fire, which lasted approximately five minutes, resulted in the deaths of 87 people and injuries to 28 others.

• Legal Proceedings: Gonzalez was arrested and ultimately convicted of arson and murder.

• Legacy: The Happy Land fire led to increased scrutiny of fire safety regulations and enforcement, particularly in public venues.

• Location: The incident occurred at 1959 Southern Boulevard, in the West Farms section of the Bronx

• Time of Fire: The fire was set around 3:30 AM and the alarm was turned in at 3:41 AM