Story highlights Lease holder is among two men charged in connection to deadly blaze, DA says

The fire broke out at an electronic dance party in December, killing 36 people

(CNN) Leaseholder Derick Almena and tenant Max Harris each were charged with 36 counts of involuntary manslaughter in the December fire at Oakland's Ghost Ship warehouse, said Alameda County District Attorney Nancy O'Malley.

The blaze broke out during an electronic dance party, killing those who could not escape from the dilapidated two-story warehouse. One of two exits to get away from the fire had been blocked, authorities said.

O'Malley told reporters on Monday that the two men "knowingly created a fire trap with inadequate means of escape. They then filled that area with human beings and are now facing the consequences of their action."

Almena and Harris face up to 39 years in prison if convicted of all charges. They were arrested earlier in the day.

Derick Almena, former leaseholder of the Ghost Ship warehouse.

Assistant District Attorney Teresa Drenick did not provide information about Harris, but a probable cause document said he lived at the warehouse and was a creative director, collecting rent and acting as an intermediary between Almena and warehouse owners.

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