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Cause of partial wall collapse still unknown

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Part of Fern Street in downtown West Palm Beach remains shutdown more than 24 hours after part of a wall collapsed.

While a cause is still unknown, city leaders say corrosion from old building materials may be to blame.

Building inspection reports for the renovated Alexander Lofts dating back to 2014 show no issues that would contribute to the wall collapse. However, city leaders say renovations at the building did not include the exterior.

"Deterioration happens over the years with all buildings and sometimes you can't see what's happening behind the wall," says Robert Brown with the city's building division.

The wall collapse is affecting dozens of tenants at the Lofts and employees at William Price Law Offices.

Dan Britto at William Price says the four injured at his office are recovering.

Everyone was able to walk out of there," says Brito.

Thankfully his law offices are still operational as well. Anderson and Carr Realty nearby is supplying space for them.

"We just knew they'd need a place to operate and so we're happy to be able to offer that," says President Robert Banting.

Until their building is deemed safe to return to, loft tenants and Britto remain in Limbo.

"Doesn't look like it's a project that will happen real quick," says Britto.

Repair work on the Alexander Lofts wall begins this weekend. Tenants should be allowed back in early next week.