Global Settlement of $100 Million for Loop Office High-Rise Fire Victims

A global settlement of over $100 million was reached on April 28, 2008 on behalf of the 22 victims of the Chicago Loop office high-rise building fire in Chicago on October 17, 2003. Four victims were represented by Corboy & Demetrio.

One of the victims, Felice Lichaw, died in the stairwell of the building during the fire. Her family was the first to file a lawsuit just three days after the fire. Pursuant to the agreement, Ms. Lichaw’s family will receive over $4.7 million. 

Carol Melton, another victim of the fire, will receive over $4.7 million in this settlement. Carol was overcome by smoke and passed out in the stairwell while holding hands with one of the decedents. She was the survivor who awoke 90 minutes later, pounded on the lock doors, and alerted the fire department. 

In total, Corboy & Demetrio represented 4 plaintiffs and the total settlement for them was over $17.3 million.

All of the Corboy & Demetrio clients are extremely pleased that the case settled. Carol Melton was preparing to be part of the first trial which was beginning this week.