The flames quickly spread inside the disco, where fire extinguishers were broken and emergency exits were blocked. In 2006, the city's mayor, Anibal Ibarra, was removed from office in the fallout from the disaster.

The families of the victims were outraged over the acquittal of the musicians and tried to storm the court. 'This verdict makes it all worse,' one father said.

The public was also upset that those convicted could remain free until they begin their sentences.