Published on April 26, 2025
At approximately 10:10 a.m., Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire responded to a single-structure commercial fire in the unit block of 51st Street in Central Lawrenceville.
The fire expanded rapidly throughout the large industrial space, from which a linen laundering business was operated.
A sprinkler system aided firefighter efforts, but the fire continued to spread, including running up into the roof. Additional staff and resources were called in, necessitating a second alarm at approximately 10:20 a.m. A third alarm was then called at 10:36 a.m. And finally, a fourth alarm just before 11:15 a.m.
The fire was deemed under control at 12:24 p.m. However, firefighters continued to combat smaller smoldering hot spots throughout the space.
One firefighter sustained a minor non-burn injury to his knee. He was initially treated on scene by Pittsburgh EMS, but was ultimately transported in stable condition for medical evaluation.
No other injuries were reported.
Crews will continue to maintain a fire watch for the next several hours to prevent any reignition.
Fire Investigation Unit detectives were called to the scene of the fire. The cause of the fire is being investigated.