"Davenport Report Unveils Causes of Building Collapse"

An investigative report released by two city-hired engineering companies has identified two "root causes" in the fatal collapse of 324 Main Street in Davenport. The report concluded that the removal of brick during repair work severely compromised the western bearing wall and that the temporary shoring installed was grossly inadequate. The report also listed seven "proximate causes" of the collapse, including inadequate oversight of repairs and inadequate maintenance. The investigation is expected to inform lawsuits and a state Division of Criminal Investigation inquiry.