Authorities announced that two juveniles are in custody on arson-related charges following the massive Front Street fire that destroyed multiple properties in Allentown.
Two juveniles are in custody in connection with the fire that tore through several properties along Front Street in Allentown on Wednesday, according to the Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office and the Allentown Police Department. The fire was first reported at the former furniture factory.
Flames were already through the roof before firefighters arrived.
“We found quickly that there’s no way to manage this as a single fire department and we requested the third, fourth, fifth and sixth alarms,” the department said. “The flames were so intense, they started fires on homes across the street.”
Lehigh County District Attorney Gavin P. Holihan and Allentown Police Chief Charles Roca announced Friday that both juveniles have been charged through the juvenile justice system. Their names and ages have not been released because of their age and the nature of the case.
Multiple felony charges filed
Authorities said both juveniles are currently being held in juvenile detention.
The charges include arson, recklessly endangering another person, conspiracy, and causing a catastrophe.
“Both juveniles will not be named nor will their ages be provided,” the joint news release stated. “Due to the age and circumstances of the offense, these charges must proceed through the juvenile system.”
Investigation remains active
Officials said the investigation into the fire remains ongoing, and no additional information is being released at this time.
Authorities also recognized the efforts of the agencies involved in the investigation and emergency response, including the Allentown Fire Department, Allentown Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), community fire departments, and other organizations that assisted residents affected by the fire.
“There will be no further comment,” the release concluded.
Key Points
- Two juveniles are in custody in connection with Wednesday’s Front Street fire in Allentown.
- They face charges including arson, conspiracy, recklessly endangering another person, and causing a catastrophe.
- The investigation remains ongoing, and officials are not releasing additional details because the case is proceeding through the juvenile justice system.