At least one person is dead and one is unaccounted for after an explosion was reported at Clairton Coke Works Monday morning around 11 a.m.
United States Senator John Fetterman, who lives nearby, told reporters that at least one person has died.
A spokesperson for U.S. Steel tells KDKA Radio "an incident occurred at U.S. Steel's Clairton Plant, specifically at coke oven batteries 13 and 14.
Full statement:
“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. 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.” (David B. Burritt, President and Chief Executive Officer of United States Steel Corporation)
Injuries
Several people were injured after the explosion, with numerous medical vehicles and at least two helicopters responded to the scene.
Allegheny Health Network hospitals says it that they received a total of seven patients (AHN Jefferson Hospital is currently treating five patients, while Allegheny General and AHN Forbes Hospitals are each treating one patient). Further updates will be provided as appropriate.
UPMC has received two patients at the burn center at Mercy Hospital.
The condition of the people injured is not known at this time.
Air Quality
The Allegheny County Health Department released a statement asking residents within a mile of the Coke Works to say indoors, out of an abundance of caution.
“Close all windows and doors, set HVAC systems to recirculate, and avoid activities that draw in outside air, such as using exhaust fans. ACHD Air Quality monitors have not detected levels of PM2.5 and So2 above federal standards.”
Allegheny County Emergency Services and County Police say “this remains an active incident and the public is urged to avoid the area.”
In a somewhat contradictory statement, Clairton Mayor Rich Lattanzi posted a statement on Facebook, saying the possible pollution has been contained.
"I was just notified that as of 10 minutes ago, the issue and the affected equipment and and gas are contained and not impeding on the Clairton Community or surrounding communities. No need to shelter in place or leave your home."
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Extra Police
The Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office says a number of their deputies are patrolling the area with Clairton Police responding to the scene of the explosion.
Deputies responded after the extra help was requested by Clairton Police Chief Robert Hoffman.
Possible Cause
KDKA Radio's Colin Dunlap says first responders say they believe a battery that cooks the coal exploded, but that has not been verified.
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