Youngstown, Ohio — City officials and leading investigators convened on Wednesday to address the forthcoming demolition of the historic Realty Building, following a devastating explosion earlier this year that claimed a life and injured several others. The discussion underscored the urgency of safety protocols and clarified plans for the building’s residents to salvage personal belongings.
Live Youngstown Property Management anticipates the building’s demolition will occur within the next few weeks. The Realty Building, owned by Live Youngstown Property Management and YO 47 LLC, has been a focal point of civic debate after a fatal incident on May 28. The explosion, which resulted in the death of 27-year-old Akil Drake and injuries to nine others, dramatically shifted perspectives on the structure’s fate.
In light of the event, Youngstown Fire Chief Barry Finley advised former inhabitants to prepare a list of essential small items for retrieval, specifically noting that larger pieces, such as furniture, would not be accommodated. This measure aims to assist former residents while ensuring the safety of first responders.
At the moment, further details regarding the ongoing investigation by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) are withheld. The agency’s findings are eagerly awaited as they may provide further insight into the cause of the explosion and potential preventative measures.
Participants in the latest meeting included numerous stakeholders such as representatives from OSHA, GreenHeart Companies, the National Transportation Safety Board, and city officials including Youngstown Mayor Tito R. Brown and Public Works Director Chuck Shasho. A legal representative for the family of Akil Drake was also present, reflecting ongoing legal and emotional ramifications stemming from the May explosion.
Historically, the Realty Building has been significant to Youngtown’s urban landscape, and the decision to demolish it has not been without controversy. Some community members and heritage preservationists had hoped the building could be saved, advocating for its historical value. However, safety concerns and structural assessments have ultimately guided the decision toward demolition.
Just two days after the explosion, investigations revealed that workers from GreenHeart Companies had been performing alterations on the building to facilitate nearby roadwork. Tragically, an error occurred when a worker accidentally cut what was believed to be a deactivated service line, leading to the explosion.
The sequence of events has galvanized city officials and community leaders to reevaluate urban development and safety protocols, aiming to prevent such incidents in the future. The loss of a historical edifice and the impact on former residents has instigated a broader discussion about the balance between preservation and modern safety standards.
The implications of this disaster will likely influence local policies and practices regarding construction and demolition for years to come. As the Realty Building prepares for demolition, the community continues to grapple with the tangible losses and the less visible scars of those affected.