Ghost Ship Directors Plead Not Guilty to Manslaughter

Last year, a fire broke out at "Ghost Ship," an unlicensed warehouse venue in Oakland. 36 people died during the blaze as people attempted to escape. In June, Derick Almena, the director of the collective and building's master tenant, and Max Harris, the artistic director, were each charged with 36 counts of involuntary manslaughter. Yesterday, both pleaded not guilty to the charges at the Alameda County Superior courthouse in Oakland. A preliminary hearing to determine if the case will go to trial is set for November 13.