NEW BERLIN, Wis. (WFRV) – Heavy rain and severe weather played a role in the collapse of the Orthopedic Associates of Wisconsin Sports Complex, which had as many as 50 people inside.
According to the New Berlin Police Department, on July 5 around 7:45 p.m., crews were sent to 5330 South Racine Avenue for a building collapse. Officials say that there were as many as 50 people inside the building. The building was the Orthopedic Associates of Wisconsin (OAW) Indoor Sports Complex.
The natural gas supply to the building was shut off, as a strong order was coming from the front door. The building owner was onside and was reportedly ‘confident’ that everyone got out of the building due to the security footage.
No one was allowed to enter the building and it was deemed ‘very unsafe’. The roof collapsed on the southwest corner and authorities said it was possibly due to water build-up on the roof.
More photos can be viewed here.
The cause is still under investigation, and authorities are further determining the cause of the collapse.
Everyone inside the building reportedly made it out safely and no injuries were reported. The following agencies were involved in the decision-making process and mitigation:
- City of New Berlin Emergency Management Director Jim Burns
- Building Owner Aaron Kahle
- New Berlin City Building and Electrical Inspectors
- New Berlin Streets Supervisor Steve Brooks
- Fire Chief Mark Polzin
- Mayor Dave Ament
Building officials said that the complex opened in October 2021 and will be closed until the building is repaired.
What’s most important to us is that no one was injured as a result of the incident. Everyone in the complex evacuated safely. We are committed to finding the cause and making repairs so that the complex can reopen and continue serving the community.
Aaron Kahle, co-owner of OAW Indoor
Kahle’s construction company reportedly built the building.
No additional information was provided, Local 5 will update this story if more details are released.
