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Officials discuss next steps to help residents impacted by Carnegie fire

There was a call for action Monday night for community members and borough officials to rebuild and help.

There were tense moments in Carnegie Monday night as alarms from Papa J’s once again echoed in the streets of downtown.

Channel 11 was there as fire officials responded. They say it appears batteries from the fire alarms inside the building were dying and ultimately the all-clear was given.

That sound was far too familiar after flames ripped through the beloved landmark along Broadway and Main streets Friday night.

John Michael Wells died of smoke inhalation, almost a dozen tenants were left homeless and more than 40 employees are now without a job.

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“To lose the momentum we had is the second loss after Mike Wells. Our team was never stronger,” said Papa J’s owner Michael Troiani.

Community members gathered at a Borough Council town hall meeting as Troiani, whose family owned the business, pleaded for support.

“What we had at Papa J’s was a special camaraderie of respect among good people. Grateful for the opportunity to come for everyone who walked through the door,” said Troiani.

They brainstormed and worked to determine what to do next and how to help those in need, getting organizations like the Red Cross, Salvation Army and Boys and Girls Club on board.

“The community is why we do this...the community is why we are all here,” said Hilerie Klein-Rensi, owner of Higher Voice Studio.

Troiani said he’s hopeful that the community can keep the momentum going during this tragic time.

“Words are words...thoughts are thoughts and actions are actions. Let’s see what happens,” Troiani said.

The memorial service for Wells is Wednesday.

Fire officials are still working to determine a cause.

An account has been set up for victims of the fire at PNC Bank under Carnegie Borough Victim Relief Fund.

There is a GoFundMe account set up as well for the victims.

 

Cox Media Group

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