Sheraden residents concerned about a series of suspicious fires in their neighborhood say abandoned properties and vehicles are part of the problem.

About 150 residents turned out for a community meeting Tuesday night to address concerns about the eight fires that occurred last month -- at six homes and in two trash cans. Only two occurred in occupied homes, said City Councilwoman Theresa Smith, whose district includes Sheraden and who organized the session.

Pittsburgh's Bureau of Building Inspections listed 17 homes in Sheraden as abandoned, and residents submitted an additional list of properties they believe are empty.

Pittsburgh Fire Chief Darryl Jones said the arson squad is investigating the fires, which investigators believe may be the work of more than one arsonist.

At least one juvenile was arrested in Sheraden, Mr. Huss said. It was unclear whether that and other juvenile arrests made in the area were connected to the fires, but arson investigators said the juveniles were caught playing with matches.

"The feeling going into the meeting was anger," Mrs. Smith said of the residents who attended. "The feeling going out of the meeting was at least something was being done."

Chief Jones told residents to remain vigilant and to call police if they notice suspicious activity. He also cautioned residents to remove debris and lumber from their yard and to keep trash away from buildings.