Cause Of Devastating Pittsburgh Banquet Hall Fire Revealed

HARMAR, PA — Harmar House owner and Allegheny County Councilman Nick Futules has revealed the cause of the blaze that gutted the popular banquet hall on August 30.

In a social media post, Futules said the Allegheny County fire marshal has determined the fire was caused by freshly laundered bar rags stored in a bin.

"I'm in shock," Futules stated. "It was revealed in my security camera system. It was referred to as internal combustion."

Futules shared photos that illustrated just how devastating the blaze was. There were charred ceiling tiles on the floor of the dining hall. More ceiling tiles could be found in the kitchen. Other areas of the banquet hall were blackened and virtually unrecognizable.

Futules said he feels horrible for customers who book the hall this year and next.

"I’m beginning the process returning everyone’s deposits," he said. "I just got my computer recovered and need time to sort out the mess. "

As to whether he will attempt to rebuild the ruins of his business, Futules said, "Today it's uncertain what's next."