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Inspectors report more safety issues at Medina Village Apartments, site of fatal explosion

Family fundraiser set for May 6 at Thirsty Cowboy
Posted at 11:36 PM, Mar 29, 2017
and last updated 2017-03-30 10:48:04-04

Medina building inspectors report more potential safety hazards at the Medina Village Apartments, just seven weeks after a gas explosion killed two at the complex on Feb. 9.

Chief Building inspector Dan Gladish told News 5 up to 50 units at the complex had dryer vent systems that were packed with lint and utilized plastic flexible piping that doesn't meet current city code.

Gladish said multiple crews are on the scene at the facility replacing dryer venting in third-floor apartments, something Gladish said could take up to three weeks to complete.

"These venting systems had the potential to cause a fire," said Gladish. "Maintenance of those systems is the responsibility of building management."

News 5 contacted the attorney for Medina Village Apartments for this story, but our call was not returned.

Josh Reindl lost his mother and his 18-year-old brother, Jacob Drake, in the explosion.

Inspectors determined the blast was caused by an uncapped dryer gas line that wasn't in use.

RELATED: 18-year-old man in wheelchair killed in Medina apartment fire

Reindl told News 5 the people responsible for the explosion need to held accountable.

Reindl said a fundraiser for his family is being organized by his friend Adam Biggins at the Thirsty Cowboy in Medina on May 6.

The concert and fundraiser will start at 6 p.m. and feature Nashville recording artists Kyle Thomas and Mark Leach.

Local artists,Sirnoc, Erin Stolland theHonky-Tonk-Angels will also headline the event.

The event will benefit the Drake Family Fund.

"I am overwhelmed by the support from the amazing artists," said Reindl.  

"So many great people are helping our family cope with this terrible tragedy."