On Monday afternoon, a blaze ripped through a duplex in Uniontown, Fayette County, rendering the home a total loss. The fire, which officials say started inside the residence, forced resident Janelle Barton and her three dogs to evacuate with no place to go.

Landlord warnings ignored

Barton told Action News 4 that she had repeatedly warned her landlord about dangerous electrical wiring. “I’ve been contacting my landlord for over a month, month and a half, about my wiring in my house. Every time I would plug something in, it would spark. And she was aware of that,” she said.

Despite those warnings, the fire department arrived to find the structure engulfed in flames. Fire Chief name not provided confirmed the building is a total loss and that no injuries were reported.

Community response

The American Red Cross has stepped in to assist Barton and her partner, offering temporary shelter and basic necessities while they regroup. Local volunteers have also begun organizing donations of pet supplies, food, and clothing to help the family and their canine companions recover.

Neighbors expressed sympathy for the family’s sudden loss. “It’s heartbreaking to see someone lose everything, especially when they’ve been trying to fix the problem for months,” said a nearby resident who asked to remain anonymous.

Next steps

Authorities are investigating the cause of the fire, and the landlord may face scrutiny for neglecting reported safety concerns. Barton plans to seek alternative housing for herself and her pets, while the Red Cross continues to provide support.

Residents are encouraged to check with local shelters and animal rescue groups if they can offer assistance. The community’s quick response underscores the importance of neighborly care during unexpected tragedies.

Original reporting: WTAE (Hearst) – local — read the source article.