Carnegie Grocery Shut Down Over Severe Roach Infestation

CARNEGIE, Pa. (KDKA) — A Carnegie grocery store has been ordered to close after health inspectors discovered a severe roach infestation described as “too many to count.” The Allegheny County Health Department shut down Rahma Grocery on East Main Street following an inspection on Thursday.

The inspection report highlighted two high-risk violations, which the health department categorizes as hazards that could directly lead to food-borne illness or injury. According to the report, an “active German roach infestation” was found in the meat processing area and ware washing room. Dead roaches were also discovered in the retail space and basement.

“Too many to count dead German roaches in retail, basement, meat processing area, and ware washing area,” the report stated. The inspector noted that the conditions posed a serious health risk, prompting the immediate closure of the facility.

In addition to the roach infestation, the health department cited a second high-risk violation involving a meat saw that was “visibly soiled” with residue from multiple types of meat. The report also revealed that the facility had been ordered to halt food processing operations on Dec. 30 due to a lack of hot water, but operators were found to be processing food during the inspection.

The Allegheny County Health Department issues a red placard and orders a closure when conditions inside a food facility pose a significant health risk. The grocery store will remain closed until it meets all health and safety standards required for reopening.

The Allegheny County Health Department’s Food Safety Program is responsible for inspecting food establishments, responding to complaints, and ensuring compliance with health regulations. The program receives approximately 2,000 complaints annually, which can be submitted by the public.

Madeline Bartos, a digital web producer for CBS Pittsburgh, contributed to this report.