Stephanie Anderson says an official who said charges are likely was not authorized to comment on the investigation of the Noyes Street blaze.

Neighbors stop to watch the house at 20-24 Noyes St. come down, and to remember the young adults who died.

The fire chief cites other safety priorities, even though guidelines call for annual visits. The public was not told about the program’s suspension, but city officials deny concealing it.

In response to a fatal fire on Noyes Street, the agency would step up inspections of apartment buildings in the city.

Many believe that numerous Portland homes are being used as rooming houses without required safety upgrades.