by Johnstown, Pennsylvania — A late-night fire in the Moxham section of Johnstown left multiple residents injured and displaced after authorities say a 25-year-old woman intentionally set a duplex ablaze following a breakup, forcing people inside to jump from second-story windows to escape thick smoke and flames.
Police say the fire broke out on January 21 at a two-story duplex on Grove Avenue, triggering a chaotic rescue effort and a wide-ranging arson investigation that has now resulted in 18 criminal charges against the suspect.
Fire erupts at occupied duplex
According to a press release from the Johnstown Police Department, emergency crews responded after flames and heavy smoke were reported coming from the rear of the duplex.
Multiple media outlets reported that residents were trapped on the upper floor as conditions inside the home rapidly deteriorated.
Several occupants were forced to jump from second-story windows to escape the fire, authorities said
Four people were transported to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center for treatment. Officials have not released details about the severity of their injuries, but all were taken for medical evaluation following the escape.
Investigators say fire was intentionally set
Fire investigators quickly ruled out an accident. According to the criminal complaint, the blaze is believed to have been intentionally ignited on the back porch using an open flame.
The Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal Unit responded to the scene and found no accidental cause for the fire.
Investigators determined the fire originated on the rear porch and was deliberately set, according to court documents
Authorities say lighters and a melted gas container were recovered from the porch area, further supporting the conclusion that the fire was arson.
Suspect allegedly seen moments before flames erupted
Police identified the suspect as Alaa Unique Griffin, 25, of Johnstown. Witnesses told investigators they saw Griffin outside the back door of the duplex shortly before the fire began.
According to the complaint, residents also reported hearing Griffin yelling about one of the occupants, who had allegedly ended a romantic relationship with her earlier that same day.
Victims said the argument occurred just hours before the fire, investigators noted.
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Surveillance footage from the area allegedly shows Griffin walking away from the back porch moments before thick black smoke became visible. Authorities said no other individuals were seen entering or leaving the porch area during that time.
Extensive charges filed
Court records show Griffin now faces 18 criminal counts, including multiple felony arson charges and offenses related to the risk posed to residents inside the home.
The charges include:
- Felony arson involving an inhabited structure
- Felony arson posing danger of death or bodily injury
- Felony arson with intent to destroy an unoccupied building
- Felony risking catastrophe
- Two felony counts of criminal mischief
Prosecutors allege the fire placed numerous lives at risk, given that residents were inside the building at the time
Authorities estimate the duplex sustained approximately $12,450 in damage as a result of the fire.
Bail set at $150,000
Griffin’s bail was set at $150,000 monetary, with 10% permitted, according to court records. She remains held at Cambria County Prison, unable to post bail.
A preliminary hearing has not yet taken place.
Police have not indicated whether additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
Community shaken by close call
The fire has left neighbors and community members shaken, particularly due to the narrow escape of those inside the duplex.
Residents jumping from windows to escape a fire underscores the extreme danger of arson involving occupied homes, investigators said.
Local officials stressed that intentionally set fires pose a significant threat not only to targeted individuals, but also to neighboring homes and first responders who must enter unstable, smoke-filled structures.
What happens next
As the case moves through the court system, investigators will continue reviewing surveillance footage, witness statements, and forensic evidence from the scene. Prosecutors are expected to present testimony regarding the fire’s origin and the alleged motive tied to the earlier breakup.
For the victims, recovery now includes medical treatment, temporary housing needs, and the emotional aftermath of a terrifying escape.
Authorities urge anyone with additional information about the incident or Griffin’s movements before the fire to contact Johnstown police.
As residents of Grove Avenue begin rebuilding, the case serves as a stark reminder of how personal disputes can escalate into life-threatening violence.
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