Ghost Ship Warehouse Fire

The Ghost Ship Warehouse Fire in Oakland occurred on December 2, 2016, in a warehouse that had been converted into an artist collective and living space. The building, known as the Ghost Ship, lacked proper permits for residential use and had numerous safety violations, including inadequate exits, a lack of sprinklers, and a cluttered interior filled with flammable materials. During a late-night party, a fire broke out, quickly spreading through the building and trapping many inside. The tragedy resulted in the deaths of 36 people, many active artists in the Bay Area, making it one of the deadliest fires in California's history. The incident sparked widespread criticism of City officials for failing to enforce safety regulations and raised awareness about the risks faced by artists and residents living in unpermitted spaces. The Unity Council in Fruitvale bought the warehouse in 2023, hoping to turn it into a new project and memorial.