A Springdale Borough man's puppy has been credited with saving him from a fire early yesterday.
Michael Lorish told authorities that he was awakened around 4:25 a.m. by his 9-month-old puppy barking. His home in the 300 block of Moyhend Street was in flames.
Police Chief Joseph Naviglia said police and firefighters were summoned and arrived as the house was almost engulfed. After the blaze was under control, firefighters and the resident went inside and found the puppy cowering, but safe in a corner.
The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Allegheny County fire marshal's office. The resident told authorities it might have started after he fell asleep while smoking.
Correction/Clarification: (Published Oct. 4, 2008) Michael Lorish escaped a fire in his Springdale Borough residence Thursday, and his dog later was rescued from the basement. His last name was misspelled in this story as originally published Oct. 3, 2008. Mr. Lorish subsequently was charged with arson.
First Published: October 3, 2008, 4:00 a.m.
