Families of victims of the tragic E2 nightclub stampede in South Loop, Chicago continue to honor their memory after 22 years

CHICAGO (WLS) — Monday marks 22 years since the deadly stampede at Chicago’s E2 nightclub, in which 21 people were killed. Dozens more were injured.

Some of the victims’ loved ones are trying to keep their memories alive.

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Angelo Patterson laid flowers Monday for the mother he lost when he was 3 years old.

Niclole Patterson, who was 25 years old, was among the crowd at the E2 nightclub 22 years ago. Tragically, she was one of 21 people who were crushed to death while attempting to escape along with approximately 1,000 others through a narrow stairway.

“It just brings me to my knees every time, every time,” Patterson said.

Every year at this time, activist Dawn Valenti visits the site of the E2 nightclub tragedy. Some years, she is accompanied by families of many victims, but this year, in the harsh cold, she stood alone.

Her close friend lost a son, Michael Wilson, in the incident. She has vowed to come annually as long as she is able.

“Twenty-one lives went out to enjoy a party and tragically never returned home to their loved ones. This is something we must never forget,” Valenti emphasized, highlighting the importance of remembering the lives lost in the E2 nightclub disaster.

Months before the stampede the owners of the club at the time, Calvin Hollins and Dwain Kyles, received a court order to close the second floor of the building.

After the deaths, they were acquitted of involuntary manslaughter, but held in criminal contempt for violating the court order. The building remained closed, until it was finally torn down last year.

“Just because this building is gone, doesn’t mean what happened here is gone. We’re always gonna come out here,” Valenti said.

And this place will always represent one of the most difficult moments of Patterson’s life.

“There’s nothing I wouldn’t give to have her back for a second, just a second. All I want is a second,” Patterson said.

The current owner of the property has said he has plans to build a high-rise apartment building for seniors. Family and friends of the victims say he has also promised to include a memorial to the E2 tragedy.