From the City of Altoona:
“On Monday, January 22, 2024, the Altoona Fire Department responded to the Gables Building located at 1331 12th Avenue for a reported commercial fire alarm. Upon investigation, it was determined that a sprinkler head failed on the 11th Avenue side which resulted in a significant water leak. Over the next 24 hours, additional issues occurred with the sprinkler system that resulted in significant water damage throughout the building. Upon inspection by the City of Altoona Fire Inspector and the City of Altoona Building Inspector, numerous life safety issues involving the sprinkler system, electrical system and structural components were identified. As a result of this inspection, the building was ordered vacated and Condemned for the safety of the occupants and the public.”