A Pennsylvania woman has been charged after authorities say she intentionally set fire to a duplex, forcing residents to jump from second-story windows and sending multiple people to the hospital.
Alaa Unique Griffin, 25, of Johnstown, was arrested in connection with a Jan. 21 fire at a two-story duplex on Grove Avenue in the city’s Moxham section, according to a press release from the Johnstown Police Department.
The blaze erupted at the rear of the duplex, with flames and thick smoke quickly engulfing the structure. Several residents were forced to leap from second-story windows to escape. Four people were taken to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center for treatment, according to local outlets.
Investigators allege the fire was deliberately set on the back porch. Residents told police they saw Griffin outside the rear door shortly before the fire began and heard her yelling about one of the occupants, who had allegedly ended a romantic relationship with her earlier that day.
Surveillance footage reviewed by investigators reportedly shows Griffin walking away from the porch moments before thick black smoke became visible. Police said no other individuals were seen in the backyard or porch area during that time. Lighters and a melted gas container were also recovered from the rear porch, authorities said.
The fire caused an estimated $12,450 in damage to the residence.
Court records show Griffin faces 18 charges, including multiple felony counts of arson involving an inhabited structure, arson posing danger of death or bodily injury, arson with intent to destroy an unoccupied building, risking catastrophe, and two felony counts of criminal mischief.
Her bail was set at $150,000 monetary, with 10% permitted. Griffin remains held at Cambria County Prison after failing to post bail and is awaiting a preliminary hearing.
