NEW KENSINGTON, Pa. — A man is facing multiple charges, including attempted homicide and arson, for allegedly igniting a fire in his stepbrother’s duplex while ten people were inside. The incident, which occurred on March 29, led to a dramatic escape for the residents, who fled from a porch roof as flames engulfed their home.
The fire broke out around 8 a.m. on McCargo Street, following a family dispute. When firefighters arrived, they found that heavy smoke and flames had blocked the main exit. New Kensington Fire Chief Ed Saliba reported that the family was trapped on the second floor, unable to descend due to the intense flames. Jeris Smith, one of the residents, jumped from the roof first, urging others to throw their children to him. Jasmine Bell, also trapped, recounted, “I just started launching kids off the roof,” as she sent her children down to safety.
Bell sustained serious injuries in the escape, including multiple fractures from her jump. Thankfully, all ten residents made it out alive, although some required treatment for smoke inhalation. Investigators determined the fire was set intentionally, igniting in the living room area through the use of a direct flame on combustible materials.
Surveillance footage from a neighbor played a crucial role in the investigation, documenting events shortly before the fire sparked. The video showed Anthony Mohamed, 37, approaching the home with a gas can just before the blaze broke out and fleeing the scene shortly thereafter. Authorities noted that a smoke detector alarm sounded moments before he was seen running away.
A Pennsylvania State Police fire marshal concluded that the fire was deliberately started. In total, Mohamed faces six counts of attempted criminal homicide, along with charges of aggravated arson, burglary, and various other offenses. Law enforcement officials have characterized him as Smith’s stepbrother, hinting at underlying family tensions that may have led to the incident.
The dispute reportedly escalated following tensions from a prior altercation. Text messages between Mohamed and Smith indicated a desire to continue conflict, though authorities have not disclosed a specific motive beyond the family dispute. Bell expressed her anger and fear, stating that the individual responsible “tried to kill my children.”
Following the filing of charges, authorities sought Mohamed, ultimately leading to his arrest on May 22 in Allegheny County. He is currently held in Allegheny County Jail, awaiting a preliminary arraignment scheduled for June 2.
As the investigation continues, focus has shifted to the evidence gathered from surveillance footage, witness statements, and fire scene analyses. Meanwhile, the families affected by the fire are working toward recovery, with plans to find a new home while they begin to rebuild their lives after the harrowing incident.