Transformer explosion forces evacuation in Penn Hills apartment building
- An electric transformer exploded at Duff Manor in Penn Hills, causing a fire and loss of essential services.
- Emergency crews evacuated nearly 100 residents, many of whom required assistance, to a nearby senior center.
- Power was restored by Saturday morning, and efforts to return residents to their apartments commenced.
On Saturday night, an electric transformer exploded at Duff Manor, a senior apartment building in Penn Hills, leading to the evacuation of nearly 100 residents. The explosion caused a fire and resulted in the loss of electricity, water, and air conditioning in the 10-story building. The emergency generator failed to activate, complicating the situation for the residents, many of whom required assistance due to health issues. Emergency crews worked diligently to evacuate residents, taking them down the stairs one by one, and in some cases, carrying them in chairs. Victoria Johnson, a resident who relies on oxygen, described the evacuation as frightening but praised the synchronized efforts of the responders. Those who did not have family to assist them were transported to the nearby Penn Hills Senior Center via PRT buses. Despite the stressful circumstances, most residents maintained a positive attitude during the evacuation. Only one individual was reported to have been taken to the hospital, and that was due to stress rather than heat-related issues. Fire Marshall Chuck Miller emphasized the urgency of moving residents from the hot environment to a cooler location. By Saturday morning, power was restored to Duff Manor, and efforts to return residents to their apartments began. The incident highlighted the importance of emergency preparedness in senior living facilities, especially in situations where vulnerable populations are involved.