Neighbors want action on abandoned house infested with wild animals

NORTH VERSAILLES, Pa. — North Versailles residents who live near an abandoned house are asking for help controlling the property.

Irene Gunderman told Channel 11’s Vince Sims that the abandoned house next to her on Ault Street has overgrown bushes and weeds, as well as a variety of wild animals.

“It’s a three-story motel for all the critters that live in the forest because they have a home,” Gunderman said.

Gunderman, 78, said animals have come into her home from the abandoned house.

“I’ve had a squirrel in my living room, a groundhog on my kitchen table and a raccoon in my kitchen ceiling,” Gunderman said. "When I come home I stomp my way down to make sure they are off my porch before I go in the house.  I don't know if any of these animals are rabid or not."

Sims said he searched tax records and found out that the East Allegheny School District has owned the house since 2007.

He asked the district to comment, but they declined.

Sims said he then took the matter to the North Versailles Township manager, who told him that they weren’t aware of the problem, but they’ll ask the school district to clean it up.

Gunderman said she hopes the district acts quickly.

“I need some help. I need something done over there before it catches fire and my house catches fire. Then I’m left with nothing,” Gunderman said.

WPXI