Two juveniles have been charged with setting a massive fire in Allentown that destroyed a former furniture factory and damaged numerous homes.
Lehigh County District Attorney Gavin P. Holihan and Allentown Police Chief Charles Roca announced late Friday afternoon that the two unnamed youths were in custody and their charges will be handled in juvenile court. The juveniles’ names and ages were not released.
The charges against them include arson, recklessly endangering another person, conspiracy and causing a catastrophe. The investigation remains ongoing, Holihan said.
Mayor Matt Tuerk has announced a 5 p.m. news conference.
The fire broke out at the former American Atelier furniture factory at 249 N. Front St. around 8:40 p.m. Wednesday. Smoke from the huge blaze could be seen from miles away, and 21 fire departments were called in to battle the fire, which was brought under control around 7:30 a.m. Thursday.
One firefighter was hurt, and numerous families were displaced. A massive cleanup of the site is underway.
Under Pennsylvania juvenile law, detained youths must have a hearing before a judge within 72 hours. In most cases, these hearings and the subsequent adjudication proceedings – the juvenile court equivalent of a trial – are held behind closed doors.
There are no set sentences in juvenile court. Punishment for arson can range from probation to time in a locked juvenile detention facility.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.