Several fires occurred overnight at waste collection sites, according to police reports.
Philadelphia city officials reported on Friday that they received numerous overnight reports of fires igniting at trash collection sites amid an ongoing strike by municipal workers represented by AFSCME District Council 33. As the city has implemented a series of drop-off sites for residents to dispose of waste during the work stoppage, the exact causes of the fires remain under investigation, with authorities acknowledging a potential link to heightened tensions related to the strike.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported from these incidents, and both the Philadelphia Fire Department and Police Department confirmed that the flames were extinguished without causing significant damage. The police and fire officials emphasized the seriousness of the incidents, asserting that any fires determined to be intentionally set will be treated as serious criminal offenses. The police department is actively investigating each reported incident, collaborating with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives to ensure a thorough examination.
The strike began earlier this week when negotiations between the union and Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker stalled over contract agreements. As one of the largest and lowest-paid unions within the city’s municipal workforce, AFSCME District Council 33 has made demands that, if unmet, could continue to disrupt services. The strike’s impact has already severely affected garbage and recycling collection, prompting city officials to direct residents to take their waste to designated sites instead of placing it curbside. However, this directive has been met with some controversy, as union workers argue that utilizing these drop-off sites constitutes crossing the picket line.
Tensions escalated on the first day of the strike, with reports of various attempts to disrupt city services, including instances of equipment sabotage. In light of the safety concerns associated with the fires, city officials underscored the risks posed by smoke inhalation, potential environmental contamination from water runoff, and the spread of embers leading to further incidents.
The Philadelphia Fire Department also issued a warning regarding the use of fireworks, which can inadvertently ignite fires that are already hazardous. As the Fourth of July approaches—a time traditionally marked by celebrations involving fireworks—officials urged residents to exercise caution and leave pyrotechnics to professionals to ensure public safety.
