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Jefferson Apartments Blaze Causes Partial Collapse in Squirrel Hill as Firefighters Go Defensive

Officials report all occupants accounted for with no injuries as relief agencies assist displaced residents.

Overview

  • Fire erupted Tuesday morning at the Jefferson Apartments at 5660–5680 Forward Avenue near the Squirrel Hill Tunnel.
  • Large sections of the roof and part of the front façade collapsed, forcing crews to pull back from interior operations.
  • Firefighters shifted to defensive tactics using aerial ladder trucks because of ongoing collapse risk.
  • Pittsburgh Public Safety says all residents are accounted for with no injuries, and the Red Cross and Salvation Army are assisting those displaced.
  • Heavy smoke and closures affected Parkway East traffic, including an inbound ramp shutdown and restricted access on Murray Avenue, as investigators examine a possible third-floor kitchen origin.