West Philadelphia residents are on high alert following reports of a mysterious woman, clad in a winter coat, believed to be connected to a recent house fire. Police have been distributing flyers cautioning the community: “Be vigilant! A woman in a winter coat might be igniting fires in the vicinity.”
Early Sunday, officers rushed to a house located at the 500 block of Allen Street after receiving fire alerts. The owner reported a burning smell and visible smoke inside her home. The rapid response from emergency services ensured the flames were extinguished promptly, but the incident was later confirmed as an act of arson by authorities. The incident has sparked growing concerns among the residents, fearing their homes might be targeted next.
James Wyatt, a neighbor, recounted a harrowing tale of how a fireman heroically saved a young girl who was resting on a couch when the fire broke out. “They initially targeted my residence, hurling Molotov cocktails into my yard. The sense of threat is real. I’ve resorted to keeping lights on and watching my property day and night,” he expressed.
Philadelphia Fire Department officials confirm that investigations regarding the motive and the suspect are still ongoing.