Florida grand jury to explore ways to prevent another building collapse

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A grand jury in Miami-Dade County will consider ways to prevent a catastrophe similar to last month’s apartment building collapse that killed dozens of people and raised concerns about the structural integrity of high-rise buildings in the area.

In a statement released Wednesday, State Attorney Catherine Fernandez-Randel said she has requested the commission, pending the completion of a long-term investigation that will determine the cause of the June 24 Champlain Towers South building collapse in Surfside.

“As a society, we remain defeated and terrified by the massive loss of life and massive destruction caused by the collapse of the Champlain Towers South Complex building,” Fernandez Randle said. “The members of the grand jury enthusiastically agreed to accept this challenge and voted in favor of such an investigation.”

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She said the commission would consider how to prevent a similar occurrence in all buildings and structures “in coastal areas, between coasts and areas around our province, state and nation.”

The Miami Herald reports that Miami-Dade County grand juries typically have two jobs: to issue criminal indictments and to explore broader public health and safety issues. Fernandez Randle said grand jury reports often led to much-needed reforms.

She cited the adoption of stricter building codes in the wake of the devastation of Hurricane Andrew in 1992.

Surfside’s collapse led to a massive search and rescue effort. The remainder of the structure was demolished over the weekend and officials shifted gears from search and rescue to the recovery mission.

Officials announced Wednesday that they have recovered 18 more bodies from under the rubble, bringing the death toll to at least 54, while more than 80 others are still missing.

In an effort to get answers, a series of lawsuits and criminal and civil investigations were launched.

At least five lawsuits have been filed on behalf of residents who have survived or are at risk of dying. One of the lawyers involved in the litigation said the collapse raises widespread concerns about issues of infrastructure and the trust we place in those responsible.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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