Partial Roof Collapse Forces 157 Residents to Flee Florida Assisted Living Facility

More than 150 residents were forced to evacuate a Bradenton, Florida assisted living facility after part of the building’s roof collapsed Saturday afternoon, emergency officials said.

Crews responded to Aviata at Bradenton Villas, located at 105 15th St. E., after receiving reports of a “significant structural collapse” in one section of the facility, according to Manatee County and the Bradenton Fire Department.

The facility provides around-the-clock, long-term care for residents with a range of medical needs, including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, according to its website.

Emergency responders spent hours moving 157 residents out of the building and into other assisted living facilities across the region. Bradenton police said the evacuation continued late into the night, with the final resident removed at around 3 a.m. Sunday.

No injuries were reported.

The massive relocation effort involved the Bradenton Fire Department, Manatee County EMS, the City of Bradenton and emergency crews from Hillsborough and Pinellas counties. Additional vehicles were brought in from neighboring counties to help transport residents safely.

“This is a challenging situation, and our hearts are with the residents and their families,” Bradenton Mayor Gene Brown said in a statement. “We are working closely with Manatee County and all regional partners to ensure everyone is safe, supported, and cared for throughout this evacuation.”

Manatee County Commissioner Amanda Ballard praised the coordinated response.

“This is exactly the kind of situation where strong partnerships and preparation make a difference,” she said.

Officials said the cause of the partial roof collapse remained under investigation Sunday afternoon.

Work was also underway to temporarily stabilize the damaged section of the building while a full structural assessment is carried out.

The City of Bradenton said Aviata is responsible for hiring a licensed structural engineer to inspect the facility.

“The city’s chief building official will be present during the engineering assessment and will continue working with the property owner and state and local partners throughout the inspection process,” the city said.

It was not immediately clear when residents may be allowed to return.

Family members seeking information about loved ones were advised to contact Aviata at Bradenton Villas directly.