Transformer fire knocks out power across Pitcairn, Pennsylvania
EIR-1142Provisional entry. Confirmed: a transformer fire cut power to the whole Borough of Pitcairn on the evening of 29 August 2018 and most supply was restored by the next morning. Not yet known: the cause of the failure, the equipment involved, any injuries and the full outage numbers. Next update: 21 September 2026.
A transformer fire shortly before 10pm on Wednesday 29 August 2018 knocked out power to the entire Borough of Pitcairn, Pennsylvania, according to Pitcairn Police. The fire was reported near Haymaker Village in Monroeville. A viewer video shared with KDKA-TV showed a utility pole on fire before an explosion. A Duquesne Light crew was seen making repairs in the area early the following morning, and it appeared that service to most of Pitcairn had been restored by then. Casualties, the cause of the transformer failure and the extent of equipment damage were not reported.
Not reported.
- A single distribution transformer failure can remove supply from an entire community, so operators should understand which customers depend on individual assets.
- Prompt crew mobilisation overnight shortens outage duration after equipment failures.
- Public video of an incident can support situational awareness and later technical review when no formal investigation findings are published.
Published 2026-09-21. Written from public reporting. Descriptive, not investigative. See the data accuracy disclaimer.