PITTSBURGH (Tuesday, Sept. 9) — A four-alarm fire that tore through the Jefferson Apartments on Forward Avenue was caused by an accidental electrical issue in the basement utility room, investigators said Tuesday.

The blaze was reported at 8:25 a.m. at the three-story, wood-framed apartment building, more than 90 years old. Firefighters encountered heavy fire and smoke from the roof, prompting the initial two-alarm response to escalate to four alarms.

Seventeen fire companies and 73 personnel fought the fire for more than four hours before bringing it under control at 1:08 p.m. Crews worked quickly to evacuate dozens of residents, including many with mobility issues.

No residents or firefighters were injured. Firefighters rescued two cats from the building, but a third was found dead.

As many as 30 residents were displaced. The city’s Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security worked with the American Red Cross to provide food, clothing, medical supplies and emergency shelter at the Greenfield Recreation Center. Social workers from the Office of Community Health and Safety also offered trauma support.

Community partners including the Salvation Army and Sally and Howard Levin Clubhouse assisted displaced residents and supported first responders on scene.