Roof Collapse Led To Evacuation Of 157 At Bradenton Assisted Living Facility

BRADENTON, FL — The Saturday night evacuation of 157 residents from Aviata at Bradenton Villas was ordered out of an abundance of caution after a partial roof collapse compromised multiple building systems, city of Bradenton and Manatee County officials said in a joint statement.

The Bradenton Fire Marshal determined the damage affected the facility's fire protection, electrical and air-conditioning systems, as well as critical support areas necessary for resident care.

Officials also said a full structural assessment could not safely be completed during the emergency response.

Residents were relocated to Aviata sister facilities through a coordinated effort involving the Bradenton Fire Department, Manatee County Public Safety and Emergency Medical Services and regional partners. The emergency response and relocation efforts concluded around 4 a.m. on Sunday, officials said.

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Aviata has since resumed responsibility for residents' care, communication with families and any subsequent relocations in coordination with the Agency for Health Care Administration. AHCA is conducting site visits at the facilities where residents were relocated.

Officials said questions about individual residents, including their current locations and family notifications, should be directed to Aviata. Until the company establishes a dedicated communication line, families seeking information may call 800-781-9593.

The property owner's structural engineer is responsible for evaluating the building.