21 clubgoers killed in exits crush

At least 21 people died after hundreds stormed the exits of a crowded Chicago night club after a disturbance broke out early today. Many more were injured, police said.

"Everybody smashed; people crying, couldn't breathe," said clubgoer Reggie Clark. "Two ladies next to me died. A guy under me passed out."

At least 21 people were confirmed dead, Chicago Police spokesman Pat Camden said.

There were more than 1,500 people in the two–story Epitome Night Club on the city's South Side when someone released pepper spray or Mace into the air some time after 2 a.m.(0800 GMT), Fire Commander Will Knight said.

"It appears a disturbance from within led to a mass chaos where people headed for the door. Most of the fatalities appear to have been crushed or had injuries due to suffocation," said police Officer Ozzie Rodriguez.