Tenants raise safety concerns after deadly fire at Wilkinsburg apartment complex
Two days after a deadly fire at Douglas Plaza Apartments in Wilkinsburg claimed the life of a man who couldn't escape, tenants are now saying the conditions inside are not just concerning but dangerous.
The man who died was a quadriplegic, unable to escape on his own.
Tenants told KDKA-TV that the tragedy didn't come out of nowhere. They point to broken elevators, security failures, and living conditions they say management has ignored for years.
"You see the sign posted outside, it's a non-smoking facility. A couple of days ago, we had a catastrophic event here at Douglas Plaza because of that," said tenant association president Ted Hardaway. "I want the living conditions to improve."
Hardaway says that the rule isn't being enforced by management. He also says elevators that don't work may have made it impossible for the victim to escape.
"It seems as though management does not sense the urgency of some of the problems."
When KDKA-TV went inside the building, we saw what other issues Hardaway was describing, including dirty floors, trash in the common areas, overflowing dumpsters, and hallway carpets that he says haven't been cleaned since he moved in four years ago.
"I'm reluctant to even invite my children or friends in."
Hardaway also says security is a major concern, with doors propped open at night, allowing anyone to walk in.
"All we want are consequences for those individuals who fail to comply with the rules and regulations," Hardaway said.
KDKA-TV reached out to building management, but hasn't heard back. Meanwhile, the Allegheny County Fire Marshal continues to investigate the cause of the deadly fire.
