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Prosecutors are reportedly considering filing charges against the city in last summer's fatal fire at the former Deutsche bank building.
The New York Times reported that investigators in the Manhattan District Attorney's office believe neglect on the part of several city agencies may have contributed to the deaths of firefighters Robert Beddia and Joseph Graffagnino.
According to the paper, investigators are focusing on the Buildings Department's failure to check a disconnected standpipe and conduct routine safety inspections.
The fire was apparently started by a cigarette. Stairwells in the building had been sealed, blocking off escape routes.
City Corporation counsel Michael Cardozo told the paper that all departments have cooperated with the investigation and any charges would be unwarranted.
The district attorney’s office told NY1 that the investigation is continuing and will be finished in the next few months.
Meanwhile, one of the major fire unions is pushing for better communication to prevent further tragedies.
The Uniformed Firefighters Association wants commanders to be notified every five minutes about water supply problems and to relay that information to firefighters in the building.
A fire spokesman said the department is reviewing the proposal.
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