On December 9, 1962, a fire broke out at the Coconut Grove nightclub in Boston, killing 492 people, making it one of the deadliest nightclub fires in U.S. history. The fire was caused by faulty electrical wiring and quickly spread through the building, which had inadequate fire exits. The club was packed with people, and many could not escape because the doors were locked or obstructed. The tragedy prompted major reforms in fire safety laws, including regulations on maximum occupancy and the installation of sprinklers in public venues. It also led to increased scrutiny of public safety standards nationwide.