 Initial inquiries suggested that the collapse was probably due to overcrowding . This was backed up by neighbors , who told authorities that the balconies were designed to hold only between twenty and thirty people . Chicago 's fire chief said that " It appears to be a case of too many people in a small space . " Norma Reyes , the city ’ s building commissioner , said " I have no indication of any substandard problems or insufficiencies with the porch at this time . The buildings are not made for large assemblies and parties . " 
