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Residents File Suit For Davenport Building Collapse

building collapse survivor Lexus Berry, flanked by co-counsel Andrew Stroth and Steven Hart
WVIK News
building collapse survivor Lexus Berry, flanked by co-counsel Andrew Stroth and Steven Hart

After their narrow escape from the partial collapse of a downtown Davenport apartment building, two women have filed a lawsuit against the owner, contractors, engineers, and the city.

When the back of the building fell May 28th, Lexus and Quanishia Berry were standing next to each other. Lexus was able to escape, but her wife was trapped in the rubble for nearly 8 hours. And was pulled out only after part of one leg was amputated.

One of their attorneys, Andrew Stroth, says their goal is justice and accountability.

"This owner and others put profits and money ahead of the health, sanctity, and well-being of the lives of residents in that building."

Co-counsel Steven Hart says it's clear no one should have been living in the six-story apartment building.

berry8 :13 Q:safety.

"We've not only alleged negligence by these defendants, but we've also alleged punitive damages for their wilful and wanton actions and inactions, and their conscious disregard for safety."

He says they filed the suit as quickly as possible to make sure all the evidence - physical, records, and electronic - is preserved.

Quanishia Berry is recovering in a Davenport Hospital.

View from corner of Main and 4th Street of progress in demolishing The Davenport apartment building
Michelle O'Neill
/
WVIK News
View from corner of Main and 4th Street of progress in demolishing The Davenport apartment building