Firefighters from the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire responded to a large fire Friday night at approximately 11:30 p.m. in the 3200 block of Rothpletz Street, located in the city’s Marshall‑Shadeland neighborhood. The structure was under construction, and crews found heavy flames licking the second and third floors as they arrived on scene.
According to the department’s initial report, the home was quickly engulfed in flames. Multiple fire engines and ladder trucks were dispatched, and firefighters worked to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to adjacent properties. Their efforts succeeded in extinguishing the fire, though the building suffered extensive damage.
During the operation, one firefighter began experiencing trouble breathing. Pittsburgh EMS transported the crew member to a nearby hospital, where the patient was listed in stable condition. No other injuries were reported, and there were no occupants inside the home at the time of the fire.
The Pittsburgh Fire Investigation Unit examined the scene and determined that the fire was intentionally set. The unit has opened an arson investigation and is gathering evidence, including fire patterns, potential accelerants, and witness statements, to identify the responsible party.
City officials from the Permits, Licenses, and Inspection department also responded to the incident, ensuring that all safety and code requirements were reviewed in the aftermath of the fire.
Arson cases are taken seriously by the city, and investigators typically coordinate with local law‑enforcement agencies to pursue any leads. The investigation remains active, and authorities have asked anyone with information about the fire to contact the Pittsburgh Police Department’s investigative division.
Residents of the Marshall‑Shadeland neighborhood expressed concern over the incident, noting that construction sites can be vulnerable to vandalism and illegal activity. Community leaders emphasized the importance of vigilance and cooperation with law‑enforcement to keep neighborhoods safe.
The city will continue to monitor the site for any further safety concerns and will provide updates as the investigation progresses.
Original reporting: WTAE (Hearst) – local — read the source article.
