No Criminal Charges Filed in Davenport Building Collapse

Scott County Attorney Kelly Cunningham announced that no criminal charges will be filed in connection with the May 2023 collapse of a Davenport apartment building, which resulted in three fatalities and several injuries. An investigation by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation concluded that the evidence did not support criminal charges against the building's owner, Andrew Wold, or any other parties. Families of the victims have since filed civil lawsuits, alleging negligence and failure to inform residents of safety risks, with Cunningham stating that these cases will proceed independently of her decision. The lawsuits have been consolidated into a class action, and Cunningham faced criticism regarding her decision, emphasizing that the aged structure's condition and prior management were factors beyond Wold's control. She also expressed concern over harassment directed at Wold and city officials, noting that such actions could constitute criminal behavior. The city is now focused on safely demolishing the remaining structure, while community members continue to seek accountability for the tragedy.