‘I’m Not Going To Answer Those Questions’ Distraught Warehouse Manager Tells Matt Lauer

By Chris Ariens 

Derick Almena, the manager of the warehouse turned nightclub in Oakland where a fire killed 36 people Saturday told Matt Lauer he was done answering his questions this morning during a live interview on the Today show.

But it began with Almena asking, “What am I doing here? I can’t even stand right now.”

Lauer asked Almena if he felt responsible for what happened.

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“No, I’m not going to answer these questions on this level,” he said toward the end of the 5 minute interview. “I’d rather get on the floor and be trampled by the parents. I’d rather let them tear at my flesh than answer these ridiculous questions. I’m so sorry, I’m incredibly sorry.”

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