Overview
- Allegheny County prosecutors filed multiple felony counts against Jacob Rabb, including criminal attempted homicide, aggravated arson, and endangering persons.
- The criminal complaint alleges he tampered with the dryer’s gas valve and turned gas on before the April 22, 2022 blast that destroyed the home and injured five.
- Peoples Gas ERT data cited in the complaint showed roughly 300 cubic feet per hour on April 18, 21 and 22, compared with an expert’s estimate of about 180 cfh for typical use.
- Investigators say the dryer gas connection was manually disconnected on three occasions, including the day of the explosion, with the furnace identified as the ignition source.
- After a 2023 breakup, Laura Petty sought a protection-from-abuse order and reported finding notes saying “If I can’t have her no one will” and “P.S. I did blow up the house,” while neighbors recalled rescues and the site is now a vacant lot for sale.