A rental property in Larimer was heavily damaged early yesterday by vandals who set the house on fire.

Eyewitnesses told arson investigators that as many as five people -- three women and two men -- were seen around 2 a.m. going into the vacant house on Orphan Street.

The witnesses said they heard loud banging and glass breaking before the gang left the building.

The suspects drove away in an SUV, either dark green or black, Pittsburgh police arson investigator Mike Burns said.

Mr. Burns said the fire was intentionally set in the first floor living room of the two-story house.

Tenants were to move into the house this week, Mr. Burns said.

Walter Hamm, who owns the property, could not be reached for comment.

The city fire bureau said the blaze and vandalism caused $20,000 in damage. No injuries were reported.

Firefighters brought the fire under control in about 20 minutes.

Anyone with information about the suspects is asked to call 911.

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