A wood balcony that reportedly was holding 20 people collapsed in Isla Vista, sending four people to the hospital. The premises accident victims were gathered at a residence as part of a massive “Deltopia” street bash that takes place to mark the start of University of California, Santa Barbara’s spring quarter.
Noozhawk.com reports that those injured in the balcony collapse were taken to local hospitals for treatment. Officials confirm that two of the victims were being treated for back injuries and another was treated for a severe cut. It was not reported what the fourth person was being treated for. Currently, there is no word as to the current state of the balcony collapse victims.
The student-organized “Deltopia” sprang from “Floatopia,” which was held on Isla Vista beaches. Santa Barbara officials shut down access to the shoreline for the unofficial “Floatopia” event in 2010 when it was determined that there were no provisions for sanitation or refusing entry to ensure the public safety of the massive party, which was attended by thousands of students.
”Floatopia” was then moved to Del Playa Drive and the event name was changed to “Deltopia.” The party was held at a residence on the 600 block of Del Playa Drive where the balcony collapsed. The cause of the collapse is still under investigation.
Injuries that are caused by dangerous property conditions or a property owner’s failure to properly maintain a private residence, business, or other institution may fall under the auspices of “premises liability.” If you have been personally injured due to the negligence of a property manager, protect your legal rights and contact a premise liability attorney at the Law Offices of Reneé J. Nordstrand. Call our Santa Barbara office at (805) 962-2022 or our Encino office at (818) 981-3530 to learn more about compensation for your losses.