A 24-year-old Pennsylvania woman, Alaa Unique Griffin of Johnstown, has been charged with arson-related offenses after allegedly setting fire to a duplex on January 21 in the city’s Moxham section.
The fire started at a two-story duplex on Grove Avenue, quickly drawing the attention of neighbors and emergency services.
According to WTAJ, flames and thick smoke were clearly visible coming from the rear portion of the house, suggesting the fire may have originated or spread rapidly in that area.
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The destructive blaze, which started in the early morning hours, forced terrified residents to jump from second-story windows to escape the flames.
As a result of the fire, four people were taken to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center for treatment, according to a press release issued by the Johnstown police department detailing the serious incident.
The Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal Unit was called to the scene. According to the affidavit, no accidental causes were identified. It was determined that the fire was intentionally set, “incendiary to the application of an open flame by human application to readily available combustible materials” located on the back porch.
According to the complaint, investigators discovered a melted gas container and several lighters on the rear porch.
According to reports from WTAJ and WJAC, victims told investigators they had seen Griffin near the back door of the residence shortly before the fire began. They also reported hearing her shout about one of the residents, who had allegedly ended their romantic relationship earlier that day.
Investigators say surveillance footage from the area reportedly captured Griffin leaving the porch shortly before thick, black smoke became visible.
According to the reports, no one else was observed on the porch or in the backyard during that time.
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The damage to the residence was estimated at $12,450, according to reports from the outlets.
Griffin is charged with 18 counts, according to court records. These include “multiple felony counts of arson involving an inhabited structure, several felony counts of arson posing danger of death or bodily injury, felony arson with intent to destroy an unoccupied building, felony risking catastrophe, and two felony counts of criminal mischief,” as reported by People.
Court records obtained by People indicate her bail was initially set at $150,000, which includes the option to post 10% of that amount, or $15,000, to secure her release.
As she has been unable to post the required bail amount, she is currently being held at Cambria County Prison while awaiting a preliminary hearing to take place on February 18.
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