Oakland Warehouse Fire
An Oakland warehouse fire broke out on December 2, claiming the lives of over 30 people. The warehouse was known as the Ghostship. It was a work-live space that more than two dozen people called home. Artists and others, looking for affordable rent in the Bay Area, used the space as their art studio and many people lived there to avoid paying costly rent elsewhere.
On the night of the deadly fire, a dance party was being hosted on the upper floor of the building. Frequent parties were held there to raise money in order to keep rents low for the people that lived and worked in the warehouse. The City of Oakland has confirmed that the permits issued to the building only allowed for use as a warehouse.
In November, the City of Oakland received several complaints of trash and debris outside of the Ghostship warehouse and also complaints of unpermitted construction on the property and inside of the building. An inspector visited the premises and confirmed that there was trash and debris outside of the building that posed a hazard. An investigator was sent back to the property and attempted to gain access to the building but was unable to do so.
Premises Liability
Owners and occupiers of property are required by law to maintain the property so that it is reasonably safe for those who come on to the property. Under certain conditions a duty to inspect for and cure certain defects and unsafe condition exists. When a person that is legally and on the property is injured or dies due to a condition that the owner or occupier knew or should have known about, the owner and/or occupier can be held accountable for the injuries or death that results.
Injured Or Killed In Warehouse Fire
If you were injured or a loved one was killed in a warehouse fire, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries or loss. Mary Alexander & Associates is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the Ghostship warehouse fire that killed more than 30 people in Oakland, California. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
