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Around 1:30 a.m. on June 24, 2021, a high-rise condo building in Surfside, Florida partially collapsed. The devastating accident affected 55 of the building’s 136 residential units. As of the morning of June 25, four fatalities were reported and 159 people were still unaccounted for.
A hotline has been set up through the Miami-Dade County and Fire Rescue to reunify loved ones: 305-614-1819. The Surfside Community Center on 9301 Collins Avenue is also helping to reunite families and friends.
The Ferraro Law Firm sends our best wishes and prayers to all of those who have been affected by the Champlain South Tower building collapse.
Family Members “Pray for a Miracle” After Champlain Towers Building Collapse
The building that collapsed in South Florida was the south tower of the Champlain Towers on Collins Avenue in Surfside.
When the building partially collapsed in the early morning hours of June 24, some witnesses recalled the ground shaking and seeing a large cloud of dust barrelling towards them. Many compared the disaster to 9/11.
JUST IN: Video I’ve obtained of the building collapse in Surfside, Florida. pic.twitter.com/BGbRC7iSI9
— Andy Slater (@AndySlater) June 24, 2021
Soon after the building’s south tower crumbled, cries of help emanated from the rubble. Thirty-five people were rescued from balconies and other parts of the collapsed structure. One young boy was found alive buried under the rubble.
Sadly, more than 150 people were still unaccounted for on the morning of June 25. Their loved ones wait anxiously for any news.
Luz Marina Pena, who was searching for her 77-year-old aunt who lives on the fourth floor, told the Washington Post, “I’m praying for a miracle.”
What Caused the Champlain Towers South Condo to Collapse?
It is still unclear what caused the condo building to collapse. While residents noted that construction work on the roof had been ongoing throughout the last month, it is unknown if the repairs played any role in the building’s collapse.
When asked about the building collapse, Surfside Mayor Charles Burkett told NBC, “It’s hard to imagine how this could happen. Buildings just don’t fall down.”
Mayor Burkett also pointed out that the building was not particularly old: It was constructed during the 1980s.
While relatively rare, when buildings do collapse often construction errors, weak foundations, or poor quality building materials are to blame. When this happens, sometimes the construction companies and contractors, condo associations, or property owners may be held liable.
Were You or a Loved One a Victim of the Chaplain Towers Building Collapse?
Building collapses can result in catastrophic injuries, devastating property damage, and tragic deaths. If another party’s negligence resulted in the Chaplain Towers building collapse, victims may be entitled to compensation for their losses. This may include compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, property damage, loss of support, and more.
The cause of the building collapse has yet to be determined. But our law firm has access to a team of investigators who can identify possible negligence and gather evidence to support victims in their pursuit of justice. We have won cases against some of the largest corporations in the country, and have recovered billions of dollars for injured clients to date. Contact us now to schedule your free legal consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
01.
How can I prove a property owner’s negligence in a building collapse case?
We gather evidence of code violations, defective building materials, and ignored inspection reports. Our team consults engineers who verify structural flaws, linking them to the property owner’s negligence.
02.
Are there time limits to file a building collapse lawsuit?
Yes. Legal action is bound by statutes of limitations that vary by jurisdiction. It’s best to consult an attorney promptly to avoid missing key deadlines.
03.
Do I have a case if I was only partially injured in a collapse?
Even minor injuries can lead to significant medical expenses and long-term issues. We can assess whether you’re eligible for compensation based on the incident’s circumstances.
04.
What if a loved one died in a building collapse?
You may pursue a wrongful death claim, seeking damages for lost financial support, funeral costs, and emotional hardship. Our attorneys handle these cases with sensitivity and dedication.
05.
How do contingency fees work?
We charge no upfront fees. Our payment is a percentage of the settlement or verdict we secure on your behalf. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.
06.
Can Ferraro Law handle my case if I live outside of Florida?
Absolutely. We represent clients nationwide, collaborating with local counsel when needed. Our extensive experience in complex litigation and specialized claims ensures we can effectively advocate for your rights, no matter where you live.
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