Structural engineer on probe into Miami collapse

A structural engineer investigating the cause of the collapse of a Miami-area condominium tower last month said the investigation analysed a number of possible scenarios to eliminate potential causes until they will be able identify what triggered the collapse.

Speaking to The Associated Press, Allyn E. Kilsheimer said he and his team were using 2D and 3D modelling to look at load-supporting elements, wind conditions and other variables.

Kilsheimer said they were also looking at a building that "was built similar to, but not the same as" the collapsed Champlain Towers South condominium to aid their investigation.

While Kilsheimer says it is too early to say what exactly caused the collapse, he has been able to study the North building and perform materials testing to compare with the building that collapsed.

On Saturday, authorities raised the confirmed death toll from the collapse of the building in Surfside to 86, with 43 people still missing.

Champlain Towers South had been home to an international mix of foreign retirees, South American immigrants and Orthodox Jews.

Officials announced on Wednesday that they were switching their mission from rescue to recovery.

IMAGE: AP