Joint Statement: Aviata at Bradenton Villas
Photo courtesy of City of Bradenton
We understand there remain many questions surrounding the emergency evacuation of residents from the Aviata at Bradenton Villas facility following the partial roof collapse Saturday night.
The emergency relocation of residents was facilitated through a coordinated response involving the City of Bradenton Fire Department, Manatee County Public Safety and Emergency Medical Services, and multiple regional partners. Manatee County’s role focused on coordinating the safe transportation and relocation of residents and helping mobilize the resources necessary to safely complete that effort.
Out of an abundance of caution, the City of Bradenton Fire Marshal ordered the evacuation after determining the partial roof collapse had compromised multiple building systems essential to the safe operation of the facility. Damage to fire protection, electrical and air conditioning systems, along with impacts to critical support areas necessary for resident care, and the inability to safely complete a full structural assessment during the emergency response made it unsafe for residents to remain in the building.
Once residents were safely relocated to Aviata sister facilities, emergency response and relocation efforts by first responders concluded at approximately 4 a.m. Sunday. Following the emergency response, Aviata resumed responsibility for the care of its residents, including communication with families and coordination of any subsequent movement of residents in cooperation with the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA).
AHCA is currently conducting, and will continue to conduct, site visits at the facilities where residents were relocated as part of its state regulatory oversight. However, all inquiries regarding individual residents, including their current locations, family notifications or subsequent relocations, must be directed to Aviata. Due to HIPAA and other privacy requirements, agencies involved in the emergency response cannot provide protected information regarding individual residents.
Because the facility is located within the City of Bradenton, questions regarding the building assessment and the structure’s current condition should be directed to the City of Bradenton. The property owner’s structural engineer is responsible for evaluating the building, and any determination regarding the cause of the collapse will be based on that evaluation.
Until a dedicated communication line is established by Aviata, families seeking information may contact Aviata through its general information number at 800-781-9593.
We recognize how important it is for families to know where their loved ones are and receive accurate information. As additional contact information is provided by Aviata or AHCA, we will share it to help connect families with the appropriate resources.
Photos courtesy of City of Bradenton