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Today in History: December 31, 1986, San Juan: Fire at Hotel Killed 96 Lives and Injured 140

12/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On December 31, 1986, three disgruntled employees ignited a fire at the Dupont Plaza Hotel in San Juan, Puerto Rico, amid a labor dispute. The blaze claimed 96 to 98 lives and injured 140, marking it as the second-deadliest hotel fire in U.S. history. This tragedy prompted significant changes to hotel safety regulations worldwide.

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Story summary

On December 31, 1986, three disgruntled employees ignited a fire at the Dupont Plaza Hotel in San Juan, Puerto Rico, amid a labor dispute. The blaze claimed 96 to 98 lives and injured 140, marking it as the second-deadliest hotel fire in U.S. history. This tragedy prompted significant changes to hotel safety regulations worldwide.