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Roof Collapse Injures Many at St. Patrick’s Day Event
A St. Patrick’s Day gathering near the University of Pittsburgh turned chaotic on Friday when a roof collapsed, injuring multiple attendees. The incident occurred just before 5:30 p.m. on Semple Street in Central Oakland, where city officials reported a significant number of injuries.
Emergency responders including Pittsburgh police, firefighters, and EMS rushed to the 300 block of Semple Street after receiving calls about the collapse. Upon their arrival, they found a porch that had crashed down onto a crowd below, exacerbating fears for those in attendance.
Witness Accounts Highlight the Chaos
Witnesses provided a vivid recounting of the event, indicating that several hundred individuals had gathered in a communal courtyard situated behind a residence. Many were reportedly on the roof of the porch at the time of the collapse, a situation that placed them in significant danger.
Emergency Response Efforts
The Pittsburgh EMS acted swiftly, transporting 16 individuals to local hospitals for medical attention. According to initial reports, 13 were in stable condition, while three sustained serious but stable injuries. Most victims were found to have suffered from minor injuries, including concussions, as well as arm and leg injuries.
Among those treated, one individual is suspected to have a leg fracture, while at least a dozen others received on-site care for minor abrasions. The quick response of emergency services likely prevented more severe outcomes.
Authorities Assess the Damage
In the aftermath of the incident, the Department of Permits, Licenses, and Inspections assessed the damage. They condemned the porch due to safety concerns, yet officials confirmed that the residential structure remained sound and stable. This assessment indicates that although the porch is unusable, it did not compromise the entire building.
The University of Pittsburgh Police also participated in the emergency management efforts. They urged students and community members to heed safety warnings about rooftop gatherings, particularly emphasizing the dangers associated with such activities.
University’s Response and Community Impact
The University of Pittsburgh opted not to disclose whether any students were involved in the collapse, stating that the situation was a matter for the City of Pittsburgh. This lack of immediate details about the victims likely added to community concern.
While the city mentioned that it did not have verified age information about those taken to the hospital, they noted that students’ status was not documented by EMS during transportation. The uncertainty surrounding the injured individuals has left many in the community worried about the well-being of friends and fellow students.
Safety Guidelines and Future Precautions
The University of Pittsburgh Police Department took to social media with an important reminder regarding safety during large gatherings. They cautioned against the dangers of being on rooftops, especially during crowded events like the St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Such warnings are crucial for preventing similar incidents in the future.
Looking Forward: Community Safety Measures
In light of this significant incident, discussions about community safety measures will likely intensify. Residents and local authorities may explore further regulations regarding gatherings, especially in residential areas where safety may be compromised by overcrowding.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards associated with roof access in crowded environments. Ensuring the safety of attendees at communal events must remain a priority for local organizers and the community at large.
As the investigation continues, both the University of Pittsburgh and city officials are expected to collaborate closely to address safety concerns and establish preventive measures for the future. The tragic roof collapse has left a mark on the community, igniting conversations around safety, responsibility, and the importance of community vigilance.
