Federal investigators have issued preliminary findings pointing to the pool deck of the Champlain Towers South condominium as the probable origin of the deadly 2021 collapse that claimed 98 lives.

According to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), evidence indicates that the structural failure began in a slab-column connection within the pool deck—at least seven minutes before the residential tower gave way. These insights are based on advanced computer simulations and large-scale structural testing.

Lead investigator Glenn Bell noted that the collapse sequence appears to have initiated in the pool deck and then propagated upward through the main structure. Meanwhile, Associate Lead Investigator Judith Mitrani-Reiser stressed that the findings expose systemic flaws, remarking: “Quality is at the heart of it”.

Investigators cataloged several warning signs in the days and weeks leading up to the tragedy. These included a sliding glass door that fell from its frame, cracks in a planter wall, a jammed gate, and a dramatic increase in water leakage from a cracked garage ceiling.

The timeline of the disaster remains clear: the tower collapsed at approximately 1:22 a.m. on June 24, 2021, while most residents were asleep.

Originally expected by the end of 2025, the release of NIST’s final comprehensive report has now been delayed to spring or summer of 2026.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, Florida lawmakers enacted legislation requiring condominium associations to maintain adequate repair reserves. Facing backlash over high fees, the state later modified the rules to ease the burden on residents.

Meanwhile, plans are underway to redevelop the collapse site. DAMAC International, based in Dubai, acquired the property for approximately $120 million. A luxury condominium named “The Delmore” is under construction on the site; units will start at $15 million, with project completion anticipated by 2029.

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(Image credit: WBAL)

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