Triangle Shirtwaist Company

Description

One hundred forty-six workers were killed in a 1911 fire at a New York City garment factory because the doors were locked to prevent petty theft. People who did not jump from the building died from smoke inhalation, burns, or being trampled in the escape. The defendants fastened, locked, and bolted a door in the factory that led to a hallway in the building that exited to a public street. When the fire broke out, workers tried to exit through the door, but were trapped. The company also allowed inflammable and combustible materials to accumulate in the factory.

Prosecutors

District Attorney Charles Whitman; Charles F. Bostwick; Robert S. Johnstone