Two Injured in Collapse of Fire Escape in West Philadelphia

The Philadelphia Police Department reported Tuesday afternoon that two men were critically injured in the collapse of a third-floor fire escape landing at an apartment building in West Philadelphia. The structural collapse in the 4200 block of Chester Avenue occurred in the rear of the building around 10 am.

The two victims, ages 36 and 31, are reportedly in critical condition (the older victim in extremely critical condition) at Penn Presbyterian Medical Center.

The accident’s cause is being investigated.

Robert Mongeluzzi, SMB partner and practice leader of the Firm’s Structural Collapse team, reacted to the accident:

Buildings and their major structural components such as fire escapes collapse for a reason. Usually the building’s age combined with poor maintenance and a lack of attention from the property’s owner or manager is to blame. A history of safety and building code noncompliance and a failure by the City’s inspectors to enforce those codes often creates an environment that encourages owners and landlords to neglect their buildings.

We pray that the injured victims can make a full recovery from their injuries.

If you have been injured in a building collapse or accident, or a family member has been injured or killed by a structural collapse, SMB has the experience and skill to obtain the compensation you need and deserve.

Call SMB at 215.496.8282 or contact us online for a free consultation.