Washington—Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today released the following statement on the Oakland warehouse fire.

“My heart and thoughts are with the victims of the devastating Oakland fire and their families. This is a terrible tragedy and is expected to be the country’s most deadly structural fire in more than a decade.

“According to the city’s Planning and Building Department, the warehouse was not permitted for residential use and likely did not meet appropriate building and fire codes. Party organizers also did not obtain the permits required to host the event. This is particularly troubling because there are other warehouses in the area that are in use and may be just as dangerous.

“I am encouraged by Mayor Schaaf’s quick and compassionate response. Together with county partners, the city is providing support and resources to victims’ families. The mayor is also launching an effort to identify and address other dangerous structures. I will help Mayor Schaaf in any way I can as she works to see that this cannot happen again.”