Local

Woman living in deplorable conditions removed from home

UNIONTOWN, Pa. — A woman who authorities said was living in extremely deplorable conditions in Uniontown was removed from her house Wednesday.

Police said neighbors called them to check on 61-year-old Carol McFarland, a retired teacher at Frazier School District, because of the garbage piled outside the house and the smell.

Lt. Tom Kolencik said when officers arrived, McFarland asked them to come back the next day.

“The garbage was piled up as high as the ceiling. I’ve been in a lot of hoarder’s homes, and normally they have neat trails that go through the house. But, in this case, it was chest level and we couldn’t get into the house,” Kolencik said.

Kolencik said he immediately smelled a strong odor coming from the house.

“When I was talking to her, she only cracked the door,” Kolencik said. “She was laying on a hammock of garbage bags about eye level.”

Kolencik said the house was one of the worst hoarding fire hazards he’s ever seen. He credits neighbors with possible saving McFarland’s life.

“They weren’t mad. They were concerned for her health and safety. You have to applaud the neighbors in the area,” Kolencik said.

McFarland’s home was condemned and she was taken to an area hospital for bug bites, flesh wounds and a mental evaluation.

Authorities said they’re hoping McFarland will get the treatment she needs.