Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Jun 25
Allentown Six-Alarm Fire Forces Evacuations, Knocks Out Power to 3,000
Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Jun 25

Allentown Six-Alarm Fire Forces Evacuations, Knocks Out Power to 3,000

3 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Jun 25

Summary

  • Around 8:40 p.m., a six-alarm fire tore through an old commercial building on North Front Street in Allentown, forcing nearby residents to evacuate and others to shelter in place.
  • The blaze spread to nearby homes, and officials told residents on the 300 block of Front Street to leave through their backyards as crews fought the fire.
  • PPL Electric Utilities cut power in the area, leaving about 3,000 customers without electricity, while the American Red Cross of Greater Pennsylvania responded to assist.
  • No injuries had been reported by late Wednesday, though the fire caused major damage including collapses, and its cause remained under investigation.

Insights

Did a massive fire conveniently fast-track a developer's plan to transform Allentown's riverfront?
How can Allentown's understaffed fire department protect the city's massive new waterfront developments?