An explosion at a U.S. Steel plant near Pittsburgh killed at least one person as rescuers raced to help dozens of people injured or trapped under the rubble on Monday.
The blast happened just before 11 a.m. at the Clairton Coke Works. There has been one death and at least two people are believed to be missing, Allegheny County Emergency Services said.
“Two people are currently believed to be unaccounted for with possible entrapment,” Kasey Reigner, Allegheny County Emergency Services spokesperson, said in a statement.
Officials said multiple people have been treated for injuries, though their current status was not immediately known.
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“Our top priority is the safety and wellbeing of our employees and the environment. We are working closely with relevant authorities to investigate the cause of the incident and will provide additional updates as they become available,” David B. Burritt, President and Chief Executive Officer of United States Steel Corporation said. “Nearly 1,300 dedicated men and women work at the Clairton Plant each day, performing their jobs with the utmost safety. During times like this, U. S. Steel employees come together to extend their love, prayers, and support to everyone affected.”
Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman said there was an active search and rescue underway with dozens injured.
Clairton Mayor Rich Lattanzi also told KDKA-TV that there have been reports of multiple injuries.
Lattanzi said he heard that the explosion happened in the “reversing room between thirteenth and fifteenth battery,” which is part of the control system of the coking factory.
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“They have a tough job, and it’s a dangerous job,” Lattanzi said of the plant workers. “My heart bleeds for every one of them and their families.”
United Steelworkers District 10 Director Bernie Hall said in a statement that union officials were on the ground assessing the situation and helping its members.
“While we are still determining the scope of the tragedy, we are aware that multiple workers are receiving medical treatment for their injuries,” Hall said. “In the coming days, we will work with the appropriate authorities to ensure a thorough investigation and to see that our members get the support they need.”
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Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said he and his administration were in touch with local officials and have offered assistance.
“The scene is still active, and folks nearby should follow the direction of local authorities. Please join Lori and me in praying for the Clairton community,” Shapiro wrote in a post on X.
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Shapiro later provided an update about the explosions at the facility.
“Multiple explosions occurred today at U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works in Clairton, PA. Since then, my Administration has been in constant contact with labor leaders and local officials, and I’ve spoken with @ACE_Innamorato to reiterate that the Commonwealth is here to provide any resources needed,” the governor wrote.
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“Injured employees have now been transported to local hospitals to receive care, and search-and-rescue efforts remain active at the plant. If you’re in the area, continue to follow the instructions of local authorities,” Shapiro continued. “Lori and I are eternally thankful for the bravery of our first responders — and we continue to pray for the entire Clairton community.”
The Clairton Coke Works is located along the Monongahela River about 15 miles south of Pittsburgh. The industrial facility is considered the largest coking operation in North America and employs thousands of workers.
Fox Business’ Brendan McDonald and Lydia Hu contributed to this report.
This is a breaking news story; check back for updates.
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