The childhood home of actor and special effects artist Tom Savini was engulfed in flames on Friday, August 15, leaving the "Dawn of the Dead" star "devastated." Savini and his wife, Jodii, were able to escape the fire at their Bloomfield, Pittsburgh residence without injury. Firefighters responded to the blaze and worked to contain the flames before the entire structure was lost.
News of the fire was shared on social media, with a post stating, "Unfortunately, @THETomSavini home did catch fire today. Tom and his wife are safe. There was damage but luckily the amazing firefighters of Pittsburgh were able to put it out before everything was lost." The post also extended thanks to those who expressed concern.
The home holds significant personal history for Savini, a Pittsburgh native. The house has been in his family for generations, having been passed down from his grandfather to his father and then to Savini himself.
Savini, a former Vietnam veteran, has had a prolific career in the horror genre. He is known for his work in special effects and makeup, contributing to iconic films such as "Dawn of the Dead," "Day of the Dead," "Creepshow," "Friday the 13th," and "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2." He also directed the 1990 remake of "Night of the Living Dead" and has acted in and performed stunts for numerous films.