NEW CASTLE, Pa. — A fire that spread to multiple buildings in Lawrence County on Monday night is under investigation, and officials are considering it “very suspicious.”
The fire broke out shortly after 10 p.m. Tuesday on North Mercer Street in New Castle.
The fire primarily damaged Giovanni’s Salon and Spa on North Mercer Street, which has been closed for some time, and an adjacent white building. While the fire also spread to Hazel’s Restaurant, officials reported that the damage there was minimal.
New Castle Fire Chief Mike Kobbe stated that the fire’s origins are highly questionable. He confirmed that police detectives are actively looking into the incident, and an arson investigator from the state will most likely be called in to assist with the investigation.
New Castle has a history of arson, having experienced a string of approximately 20 arsons between 2012 and 2013. That period saw the creation of an arson task force, which ultimately led to multiple arrests and charges, according to Chief Kobbe.
“The only thing we know for certain is this is very suspicious,” Chief Kobbe said.
Connie McMichael, owner of Connerly’s dry cleaners right next door, said she rushed to her business after learning about the fire and feared the worst.
“I was pretty emotional coming in here because I think I broke every speed limit coming in,” McMichael said.
McMichael, who now owns the business but has worked here for 42 years, said she was relieved to find her building unharmed.
“I’m very, very thankful for the Lord that he’s taken care of me,” she said.
No injuries were reported.
New Castle code enforcement officials said they will assess the structural integrity of the two vacant buildings to determine whether they need to be demolished.
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