Ross Building Destroyed By Fire May Be Rebuilt

Somewhat to the surprise of its owner, the commercial building at 3185 Babcock Boulevard in Ross Township, , may be rebuilt. 

Ross Township Commissioner Peter A. Ferraro, his son and daughter own the building and after taking a second, extensive look, a representative of the Farmers Insurance company told Ferraro it might not have to be torn down.

“They assured me it would be better than it was before,” said Ferraro.

“They plan to take off the entire second floor, replace it, along with the rear of the building.” 

Ferraro said a final decision wouldn’t be made until the insurance company determines the cost of rebuilding verses the value of the building prior to the fire. 

According to the Allegheny County Real Estate web site, the building was valued at $185,300. 

Ross Township's Fire Marshal said investigators have pinpointed the origin of the fire.

"It started in the ceiling above the Studio Raw hair salon," said Fire Marshal John Reubi. "We think it was an electrical problem, but because the fire was so intense, we can't say for absolute certainity. For that reason, the cause will be listed as undetermined."

However, Reubi does not suspect foul play.

"We've found nothing out of the ordinary to suggest this was anything other than an accidental fire," said Reubi. 

Investigators said it’s possible the fire had been burning inside the walls for nearly an hour before the smoke and flames became evident.

“From what I’ve heard, by the time the smoke alarms were going off, it was already too late,” said Ferraro. 

The structure had been home to several offices, including Arbors Management Inc.; Santucci Insurance; Eisen & Associates, an attorney's office; Massage Centre for Fibromyalgia and the Studio Raw hair salon. 

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