Mayor Gainey Declares Disaster Emergency for Jefferson Apartment Fire
Published on September 12, 2025
MAYOR ED GAINEY DECLARES DISASTER EMERGENCY FOLLOWING JEFFERSON APARTMENTS FIRE IN SQUIRREL HILL
Pittsburgh, PA – In response to the devastating fire that destroyed the Jefferson Apartments on Forward Avenue in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood on Tuesday, Mayor Ed Gainey has officially declared a local Disaster Emergency for the City of Pittsburgh. This declaration was issued under the authority of the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Services Code (35 Pa. C.S. §§ 7101 et seq.) and City Code § 113.03, enabling an immediate and coordinated emergency response.
At approximately 8:30 AM on September 9, 2025, a massive fire erupted at the Jefferson Apartments near the intersection of Forward and Murray Avenues. Though firefighters contained the blaze, the damage was catastrophic and resulted in the total loss of the building, which requires full demolition.
Dozens of residents have been permanently displaced, suffering severe personal and property losses. Many of the affected residents do not have rental insurance, significantly compounding the hardship they now face.
“This is a heartbreaking moment for our community,” said Mayor Ed Gainey. “The Jefferson Apartments were home to so many of our neighbors — families, seniors, students, and individuals who have now lost everything. My administration is moving swiftly to make sure they receive the help they need. This emergency declaration allows us to mobilize every available resource to support the victims, stabilize the neighborhood, and begin the recovery process without delay.”
Mayor Gainey also expressed deep gratitude to the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire for their rapid response and extraordinary efforts to contain the fire and prevent any loss of human life.
“I want to thank the brave members of the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire, whose quick action and courage prevented what could have been a tragic loss of life,” said Gainey. “Their service to our city should be applauded.”
Under this declaration, the City of Pittsburgh is authorized to activate all relevant emergency management plans and expedite emergency services, recovery operations, and aid distribution. The declaration was requested by the Bureau of Fire and the Office of Emergency Management in the course of their assessment of the damage and its impact on the displaced residents. The declaration will make it possible for displaced residents who meet program qualifications to seek state and federal assistance for losses they incurred in the fire.
The disaster emergency declaration is effective immediately and will remain in place for up to seven (7) days, subject to extension with approval from the Pittsburgh City Council.
Residents impacted by the Jefferson Apartments fire are encouraged to contact 311 or visit the City’s website for assistance resources and up-to-date information on recovery efforts.
The Emergency Declaration can be viewed here:
Emergency Declaration Jefferson Apartments