Pa. Woman Accused of Torching Duplex After Breakup, as Residents Jump from Windows

A Pennsylvania woman is facing a series of arson-related charges after authorities say she deliberately set a duplex on fire—an incident that reportedly forced residents to jump from second-story windows and sent multiple people to the hospital.

Police in Johnstown said Alaa Unique Griffin, 25, was arrested in connection with the Jan. 21 blaze in the city’s Moxham section. In a press release, the Johnstown Police Department said she has been charged with multiple arson-related offenses.

The fire broke out at a two-story duplex on Grove Avenue. Local outlets reported that flames and smoke were visible coming from the rear of the home. Four people were taken to Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center for treatment after residents were reportedly forced to jump from second-story windows to escape the smoke and flames.

Investigators believe the fire was intentionally set on the back porch using an open flame, according to multiple reports citing the criminal complaint. The Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal Unit responded to the scene and reportedly found no accidental cause.

Victims told investigators they saw Griffin outside the back door shortly before the fire began and heard her yelling about one of the residents, who had allegedly ended a romantic relationship with her earlier that day, according to the reports.

Surveillance footage from nearby cameras allegedly showed Griffin walking away from the porch moments before thick black smoke became visible. Investigators said no one else appeared in the backyard or on the porch during that time, according to the outlets. Authorities also reportedly recovered lighters and a melted gas container from the rear porch.

The duplex sustained an estimated $12,450 in damage, according to local reports.

Court records show Griffin is charged with 18 counts, including multiple felony counts of arson involving an inhabited structure, several felony counts of arson posing a 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.

Bail was set at $150,000 monetary, with 10% permitted. She remains held at Cambria County Prison, unable to post bail, and is awaiting a preliminary hearing.