A family friend is defending the 10-year-old boy who is accused of setting an apartment fire in Lincoln-Lemington, leaving several residents displaced.

Police said the fire began in the Luzzo Court Apartments in Pittsburgh's Lincoln-Lemington neighborhood around 7 p.m. Thursday.

Investigators said the 10-year-old pulled a ground wire, sparking two fires in the complex, causing power outages in 14 apartment units.

Derek Butler said he blames the exposed wiring.

Authorities said even though the fires were small, more than a dozen families were forced from their homes.

The boy was taken into custody, but police have not said what charges he may face. He has since been released and is back home.

The identity of the boy will not be released because he is a juvenile.

Police are still investigating.