04/13/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Glassport Fire Department
Structure Fire with Explosion, Collapse, and Mayday – April 12, 2026
The Glassport Fire Department provides the following statement regarding a significant fire incident that occurred on Sunday, April 12, 2026.
Just before 2:00 PM, a first alarm assignment was dispatched for a reported structure fire in a multi-unit apartment building in the area of 7th Street and Indiana Avenue in Glassport. While en route, responding crews received updated information from police advising of a working fire with possible entrapment. Based on this information, 161 Lieutenant(Hickman), requested a second alarm assignment along with an additional engine company from Jefferson Hills.
Upon arrival of 161 Assistant(Foster), command was established with heavy smoke and fire visible from a two-story duplex on the Alpha and Delta sides. Initial arriving companies immediately deployed and coordinated efforts, including primary searches, fire attack, water supply establishment, and truck company operations. Crews were initially advised that all occupants were out of the structure, with possible pets remaining inside.
Firefighters encountered significant fire conditions on the first floor, including the living room, hallway, and a bedroom. As crews conducted searches and ventilation, the bulk of the visible fire was knocked down. Additional companies were assigned to check for extension in the exposure building and upper floors.
During operations, one cat was located alive but in distress. Firefighters removed the animal and administered oxygen using pet resuscitation equipment. The animal was transferred to EMS and later transported to an emergency veterinary facility.
Due to the balloon-frame construction common in the area, fire extended rapidly through concealed void spaces. Crews worked extensively to open walls and ceilings to locate and extinguish hidden fire. Fire was eventually identified in the cockloft area, prompting vertical ventilation operations. Roof crews encountered heavy fire conditions, including a secondary false roof, and were subsequently withdrawn due to rapidly deteriorating conditions.
Operations transitioned to a defensive strategy, utilizing multiple aerial master streams to knock down heavy fire. As conditions evolved, fire spread into the adjoining structure at 642 Indiana Avenue. A third alarm was requested to support continued operations.
While operating inside the exposure building, crews encountered a dangerous backdraft event—an explosive ignition caused by the introduction of oxygen into a superheated, oxygen-deprived environment. The explosion resulted in a partial structural collapse on the Bravo side of the building. An emergency evacuation was immediately ordered, and a Mayday was declared for interior crews.
Rapid Intervention Teams were deployed without delay. All firefighters were able to self-extricate, and injuries sustained were reported as minor.
Due to ongoing structural instability and fire conditions, crews remained in a defensive posture for the duration of the incident. Apparatus were repositioned to ensure firefighter safety, and coordination with borough officials led to the initiation of emergency demolition operations.
Approximately seven hours into the incident, conditions allowed for a brief re-entry into the original fire building to conduct a final search for a missing pet. Firefighters successfully located a second cat alive and removed it safely, providing oxygen treatment before returning it to its owner.
Demolition operations were conducted with heavy equipment while crews maintained fire suppression and extinguished remaining hotspots.
The incident lasted approximately 13 hours, with crews clearing the scene around 4:00 AM. A total of five injuries were reported. Two individuals were transported to local hospitals, treated, and released. All occupants were safe, and both cats are reported to be doing great.
The Glassport Fire Department extends its sincere appreciation to all mutual aid partners for their assistance and professionalism during this incident. We also thank the members of the community who provided food, water, and support to emergency personnel working on scene.
This incident remains under investigation by the Allegheny county fire marshals office.
(Photos belong to original photographers. Just some of the ones we were sent)
