On May 15 , 1929 , nitrocellulose x-ray films stored in the basement of the outpatient building ignited . An explosion sent a cloud of toxic oxides of nitrogen and carbon though the building . One hundred and twenty-three people lost their lives , including founder Phillips , and 92 others were injured . A dozen investigating agencies were not able to determine a single cause for the Cleveland Clinic fire of 1929 . Cleveland Clinic ’s own inquiry narrowed the possible causes down to three : spontaneous combustion caused by heat ; a discarded cigarette or match ; contact with an extension cord light hung over a stack of films
Cleveland Clinic fire of 1929
Cleveland Clinic fire of 1929
History of Cleveland Clinic