A significant structural collapse at a Bradenton assisted living facility prompted the evacuation of about 157 residents Saturday, according to Manatee County officials.
Emergency responders from Manatee County Public Safety and Emergency Medical Services, working alongside the Bradenton Fire Department, the City of Bradenton and regional partners, were relocating residents from Aviata at Bradenton Villas, 105 15th St. E., according to the press release issued by Manatee County Governemt at 8 p.m. July 26.
The assisted living facility is located near Manatee Mineral Spring Park and Bradenton Riverwalk East.
Officials said Bradenton firefighters and Manatee County EMS district chiefs responded to help evacuate the building and ensure residents could
be safely moved to other accommodations. Manatee County Emergency Management coordinated the response.
Transportation and alternate housing are being arranged for the displaced residents. Because of the large number of people requiring relocation, officials said agencies in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties are providing additional transportation resources, including ambulances and accessible transit vehicles.
No injuries have been reported, according to Manatee County.
"This is exactly the kind of situation where strong partnerships and preparation make a difference," Manatee County Commissioner Amanda Ballard said in a statement. "Our priority is making sure every resident is safely relocated and cared for during what is undoubtedly a difficult and disruptive situation."
Ballard thanked Manatee County Public Safety, the Bradenton Fire Department and regional partners for assisting with the evacuation.
Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown said the city is working closely with county officials to support residents and their families.
"This is a challenging situation, and our hearts are with the residents and their families," Brown said in a statement. "We are working closely with Manatee County and all regional partners to ensure everyone is safe, supported, and cared for throughout this evacuation."
Officials have not released details about what caused the structural collapse or identified the specific area of the facility that was affected.
Authorities said no additional emergency response units have been requested, and public safety personnel continue working with facility representatives to complete the relocation effort.
Manatee County said additional information will be released as it becomes available.
Wade Tatangelo is the executive editor of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune and Florida dining and entertainment editor for the USA TODAY Network. Follow him on Facebook, Instagram, and X. He can be reached by email at wade.tatangelo@heraldtribune.com. Support local journalism by subscribing.
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Bradenton assisted living collapse forces mass evacuation
