Disaster Emergency Declared In Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH, PA — In response to the devastating fire that destroyed the Jefferson Apartments on Forward Avenue in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood on Tuesday, Mayor Ed Gainey has officially declared a local Disaster Emergency.

The declaration enables an immediate and coordinated emergency response.

On Sept. 9, a four-alarm blaze erupted at the building near the intersection of Forward and Murray avenues. Though no one was injured, the damage was catastrophic and will require full demolition of the building.

Dozens of residents have been permanently displaced, suffering severe personal and property losses. Many of the affected residents do not have rental insurance, significantly compounding the hardship they now face.

“This is a heartbreaking moment for our community,” Gainey said in a statement.

“The Jefferson Apartments were hoe to so many of our neighbors — families, seniors, students, and individuals who have now lost everything. My administration is moving swiftly to make sure they receive the help they need. This emergency declaration allows us to mobilize every available resource to support the victims, stabilize the neighborhood, and begin the recovery process without delay.”

The disaster emergency declaration is effective for up to seven days and could be extended by city council.