BRADENTON, Fla. — A cloud of uncertainty hangs over the Aviata at Bradenton Villas as more than 150 evacuated residents await answers. The building stands empty after a section of its roof gave way, but the cause of the collapse remains a mystery.
In a bid to find answers, 8 On Your Side consulted Dr. Nick Bradford, a seasoned structural engineer, who examined city-supplied photographs of the incident. Bradford identified two plausible reasons that could have led to the roof’s failure.
“One possible culprit is a burden from pooled rainwater accumulating on the roof,” Bradford explained. “Another factor that might have played a role is prolonged structural decay, such as rot, over time.”
The City of Bradenton, in collaboration with Manatee County, issued a joint statement detailing that a variety of the building’s systems were compromised. They reported damages affecting fire safety, electrical frameworks, and air conditioning, alongside disruptions to essential support services.
8 On Your Side asked Bradford what engineers will consider when finding the cause of the collapse.
“They might have been looking for signs of rot or deterioration. They might have been looking for signs where parts of the roof had fractured, leading to other collapses within the roof,” Bradford said.
The city said the building was constructed in 1950. Permits for the building show seven different projects done to the roof from 2004 to 2011. They included re-roofing over multiple sections, replacing rooftop AC units, and adding shingles. 8 On Your Side tried calling the company that did five of the seven projects to the roof, but the company is permanently closed.
Bradford said if it’s from a long-term problem, people inside would’ve seen leaks or issues that could’ve led to the collapse.
“Most big problems like you have right now start out as small problems,” Bradford said.
One man’s sister was moved from Aviata to a facility in Fort Myers due to the collapse. 8 On Your Side asked if they have ever witnessed any leaks or maintenance problems there.
“Other than janitorial concerns, she’s mentioned roof leaks after Milton,” said Jim Keown, the decision maker for his sister.
8 On Your Side reached out to the company for their maintenance logs and is waiting to hear back.