LIVE UPDATES: 1 dead, 1 missing and 10 injured in explosion at US Steel Clairton Coke Works plant

CLAIRTON, Pa. — At least one person was killed and 10 others were injured in an explosion at the U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works.

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Allegheny County Police Department said that one person is still unaccounted for.

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A mass casualty incident was declared to allow for additional EMS resources from across the region to respond. Multiple medical helicopters were called to the scene.

Officials said this remains an active incident and are asking people to avoid the area.

The Allegheny County Health Department said out of an abundance of caution, they are advising residents within one mile of the plant to remain indoors, close all windows and doors, set HVAC systems to recirculate and avoid activities that draw in outside air, such as using exhaust fans.

There are multiple resources for anyone experiencing a mental health crisis as a result of this incident, including calling or texting 988. Click here for more information.

There’s also the Disaster Distress Hotline, 1-800-985-5990, which can provide immediate counseling.

This is a breaking story, and we have multiple crews at the scene working to learn more. Check back for live updates below as we get them:

UPDATE 4:15 p.m.:

Allegheny Health Network said that five patients who were taken to Jefferson Hospital have been discharged.

UPDATE 3:59 p.m.:

Allegheny County officials gave an update, saying that one person was killed, 10 people were injured and one person is still unaccounted for.

A second person who was considered unaccounted for was rescued from the rubble and flown to an area hospital.

UPDATE 3:36 p.m.:

United States Steel Corporation President and Chief Executive Officer David B. Burritt said the explosions occurred at coke oven batteries 13 and 14, and released the following 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”

UPDATE 3:31 p.m.

UPMC confirms that another patient is being taken to Mercy Hospital, which would make a total of 3 patients being treated there.

UPDATE 2:30 p.m.:

Gov. Josh Shapiro issued an updated statement regarding the situation:

UPDATE 1:51 p.m.:

Rep. Summer Lee issued the following statement:

“My team and I are aware of the tragic explosion at the U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works plant. My heart is with the workers, especially those injured or trapped, their families, first responders, USW members, and the entire Clairton community. I am deeply grateful to the emergency personnel, medical teams, and rescue crews who are responding with courage and urgency. My office remains committed to ensuring that every affected worker and family receives the support and resources they need.”

UPDATE 1:33 p.m.:

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) confirmed on social media that they are assisting at the plant.

UPDATE 1:25 p.m.:

The United Steelworkers union director sent the following statement to Channel 11:

“The USW has occupational health and safety experts and other representatives on the ground at the Clairton Works assessing the situation and aiding our members,” said USW District 10 Director Bernie Hall. “While we are still determining the scope of the tragedy, we are aware that multiple workers are receiving medical treatment for their injuries. 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.”

UPDATE 1:19 p.m.:

Allegheny County said that two people are still believed to be unaccounted for.

UPDATE 1:08 p.m.:

The Allegheny County Health Department said out of an abundance of caution, they are advising residents within one mile of the plant to remain indoors, 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,” they added in a statement.

The department said it will continue to provide updates as they have them.

DRONE 11: Video above shows the US Clairton Coke Works following explosion

UPDATE 12:45 p.m.:

Allegheny Health Network confirms that they have received a total of seven patients from the explosion. AHN Jefferson Hospital is currently treating five patients, while AHN Allegheny General Hospital and AHN Forbes Hospital are each treating one patient.

A spokesperson for UPMC said two patients were taken to Mercy Hospital.

UPDATE 12:39 p.m.:

Kasey Reigner, A spokesperson for the Allegheny County Department of Emergency Services, tells Channel 11 that dozens were injured in the explosion.

Reigner added that a Level 3 Mass Casualty Incident has been declared, calling in even more resources across the region.

UPDATE 12:27 p.m.:

Lt Gov. Austin Davis posted on X

UPDATE 12:16 p.m.

Officials confirm that at least one person was killed in the explosion.

UPDATE 12:05 p.m.:

Officials confirm to Channel 11 that there are people unaccounted for. Crews are searching for victims who may be trapped in the rubble.

UPDATE 12 p.m.:

Gov. Josh Shapiro posted on X, saying his administration is in touch with local officials.

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