Accident – death – Obituary News :

Philadelphia Families Sue City Agencies Over Fatal Row House Fire

Two years after a devastating row house fire claimed the lives of twelve individuals in Fairmount, Philadelphia, the families of the victims have filed a federal lawsuit against the Philadelphia Housing Authority and the city’s Department of Human Services. The lawsuit alleges that the city agencies failed to ensure the safety of the property, thus violating the victims’ civil rights.

The tragic incident, which began with a Christmas tree catching fire, resulted in the deaths of nine children and three adults. The families claim that the four-bedroom apartment owned by the housing authority was overcrowded and lacked essential fire safety features, including a fire escape and functional smoke detectors.

The lawsuit specifically points out that during two visits to the home in December 2021, a Human Services social worker discovered inoperable smoke detectors. However, the worker failed to return with working detectors, as promised. Housing authority records also indicate that their staff made three visits in December 2021, but the lawsuit alleges that the records falsely indicated that the smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors were in working condition.

According to Howard Robinson, a family member of the victims, the past year has been incredibly difficult without their loved ones. “There are times I can’t sleep at night just thinking about them, how much I miss them,” he expressed.

Mayor Cherelle Parker’s spokesperson, Joe Grace, declined to comment on the ongoing litigation. Messages seeking comment from the Philadelphia Housing Authority were also left unanswered.

The fatal Fairmount fire, which occurred in Unit B of 869 N. Third St., stands as the deadliest fire in Philadelphia in over a century. The investigation determined that the fire started when a five-year-old child played with a lighter near the Christmas tree. Fortunately, the child responsible for the fire and one other apartment occupant survived.

In addition to seeking monetary damages, the lawsuit demands that all public housing units in the city undergo inspections and testing to ensure the presence of working smoke detectors. This measure aims to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Another negligence lawsuit related to the fire was previously filed in March in Philadelphia Common Pleas Court. The case, which is in the discovery phase, remains pending.

As the legal battle unfolds, the families continue to mourn their loved ones and advocate for safer housing conditions. The devastating consequences of the Fairmount fire serve as a reminder of the urgent need for improved fire safety measures in residential properties.

Source: 6abc.com

Copyright © 2024 WPVI-TV. All Rights Reserved.

.