A rental property in Larimer was heavily damaged early today by vandals who set the house on fire.

Eyewitnesses told arson investigators that as many as five people -- three women and two men -- had been seen around 2 a.m. going into the vacant house on Orphan Street.

The witnesses said they heard loud banging and glass breaking before the gang left the building.

The suspects drove away in an SUV, either dark green or black, Pittsburgh police arson investigator Mike Burns said.

The house recently was prepared for tenants to move in this week, Mr. Burns said.

The city fire bureau said the blaze and vandalism caused $20,000 in damage.

No injuries were reported.

Mr. Burns said the fire was intentionally set in the first floor living room of the two-story house.

Firefighters brought the fire under control in about 20 minutes.

Anyone with information about the suspects is asked to call 911.

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