Preliminary Charleston 9 NIOSH Report Released

CHARLESTON, S.C. -- NIOSH's draft report on the fatal Charleston Sofa Super Store was released late Thursday by Mayor Joe Riley.

The 55-page document does not include recommendations. Those will be part of the final report.

Nine Charleston firefighters were killed June 18 as they attacked a blaze in the furniture store.

Riley pointed out that it was his decision, not NIOSH's to release the preliminary report.

The investigative report follows the same path taken during other fatal probes. Officials look at the fire department, training and equipment as well as documenting what happened at the fire scene. The document contains diagrams, sketches and pictures.

On Tuesday, Riley said he had changed his mind about releasing the report compiled by a panel of national fire service experts. He originally said he was going to hold off until the other probes were completed.

However, after speaking with members of the victims' families, firefighters and others, he decided he will release the report on May 15.

Related Links:

• View NIOSH Draft Report