The collapse of the South Champlain Tower at Surfside killed at least four people and left 159 unaccounted for
A $5 million class-action lawsuit was filed against the building’s construction for failing to “care for” and “protect” its occupants following the collapse of a Miami area home, killing at least four people and leaving more than 150 missing.”
The lawsuit, first reported by ABC subsidiary WPLG, was filed by law firm Brad Sohn late Thursday, just hours after Champlain Towers South in Surfside, Florida, collapsed around 1:30 p.m.
Manuel Dresner, who lives in the collapsed tower and owns a housing unit, is registered as a plaintiff in his name and on behalf of “everyone in the same situation,” according to the complaint PEOPLE received.
The class sued for US$5 million in damages. It accused the Champlain Towers South Condominium Association, Inc. of failing to notify visitors and residents of the lack of security and “negligence” for not taking the available steps to prevent a collapse. Already aware of the importance of protecting the life and property of the plaintiff and his group and the foreseeable consequences that will occur.
If he does not, including, in particular, loss of life and use of property which the plaintiff and his group will injure if the defendant does not take reasonable precautions,” said the complaint. It claimed that “normal maintenance, safety, and surveillance procedures” could have prevented the damage, citing a public statement by the association’s attorney, Director Ken, saying that “a need for repair has been identified.”