Philadelphia – The Cedarbrook neighborhood is grappling with fear after two suspected arson incidents occurred within a single week. The first fire broke out on September 21, 2026, around 7 p.m. at a rear door on the 8200 block of Williams Avenue. Police say a woman in her 30s, medium‑built, wearing a black baseball cap, white face covering, red shirt and blue pants, ignited a metal can before fleeing the scene. Surveillance video captured the act.
Neighbors rally to help
Neighbors reported that the blaze erupted behind a home that operates as a daycare. A passerby quickly tried to alert anyone inside and used a child’s toy filled with rainwater to douse the flames until firefighters arrived. No injuries were reported.
Second fire raises concerns
Four days later, on September 25, a second fire was reported. Police responded on the evening of September 26 after a resident described a woman, possibly in her 20s or 30s, about 5 feet 8 inches tall, medium‑brown complexion, medium build, who threw a bottle that had been set on fire at a parking bollard in a rear driveway. An air‑conditioning unit was also targeted. The suspect was described as wearing glasses, a black cap, a dark‑colored hooded sweatshirt, dark pants, and her hair in a bun. Firefighters extinguished the blaze without injury.
Community fears and police response
Police say the suspect was last seen fleeing westbound on Mount Airy Avenue. Residents expressed deep concern that the attacks could continue if the individual is not apprehended. “One down and then it’ll be my turn, so hopefully we be able to get her off the street,” said resident Dave Wallace. Another neighbor, Kyle Donaldson, warned, “If she succeeds in what she’s doing, somebody’s house is gonna wind up burning down. It could possibly cause somebody to be killed in a fire.”
Simone Johnson, who was walking her dog during the second incident, said she did not realize what she had witnessed until later. “Just the thought that she probably could do something like this again to somebody’s house like this again really scares me,” Johnson said.
Police investigation continues
Authorities have not made any arrests and are still gathering evidence. The investigations into both fires remain ongoing, and police are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.
What residents can do
Neighborhood leaders are encouraging residents to stay vigilant, report any suspicious activity, and support one another during this unsettling time. Local fire departments continue to monitor the area closely, and community meetings are being planned to discuss safety measures and possible neighborhood watch initiatives.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
