Demolition work has commenced on the remnants of a six-story apartment building in Davenport, Iowa, which tragically partially collapsed over two weeks ago, resulting in three fatalities and displacing numerous residents.
On Monday morning, crews initiated the dismantling process, utilizing a large excavator to carefully take down the 116-year-old structure composed of brick, steel, and concrete. Officials anticipate the demolition will span several weeks due to the building's location in the city's downtown area and the presence of asbestos and other potentially harmful materials.
The building's partial collapse on May 28th trapped three residents beneath the rubble, tragically leading to their deaths. Numerous other occupants were forced to evacuate the premises. One woman endured a leg amputation to be rescued from the debris.
Local residents observe the scene near the collapsed apartment building in Davenport, Iowa, on June 5, 2023. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
According to a city news release issued Sunday night, officials have been collaborating with structural engineers, regulatory bodies, and the demolition company to formulate the safest and most effective deconstruction plan. As a safety measure, nearby apartment residents have been temporarily evacuated during the demolition process.
Following the collapse, city officials have faced inquiries regarding the decision to allow tenants to remain in the building despite prior warnings of structural instability. The day before the incident, firefighters responded to concerns about a compromised wall. The city's news release stated that fire crews observed ongoing work and apparent shoring of the structure on that Sunday. A city building inspector also visited the site and assessed that the work seemed to align with the submitted plans and specifications, with no visible signs of structural distress or bowing in the external shoring.
