2 dead, 10 injured after explosion at US Steel plant in Pennsylvania

Two people are dead and 10 more injured following an explosion at the US Clairton Coke Works Plant outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on Monday. Authorities revealed in a late-night press conference that two people had died, 10 people were taken to local hospitals with injuries, one person was rescued, and multiple others were treated at the scene. 

In a press conference earlier Monday afternoon, authorities had said that one person was dead and another was still missing. Victor Joseph, the Assistant Superintendent for the Alleghany County Police Department, said that two people were initially missing, but one had been rescued within the hour prior to the afternoon press conference. That worker was transported to a local hospital. Another person was pronounced dead, and 10 people were injured.

US Steel Executive Vice President Scott Buckiso said that one explosion occurred at around 10:50 am and between the facility’s 13 and 14 batteries. "Our employees did a great job of making sure that we went in and rescued everybody that was involved safely, shut down all of the gases and utilities, and the plant is stable. But as I said, it is still an active investigation."

Alleghany County Emergency Services Chief Matt Brown said that around 20 EMS agencies and 14 fire departments in the area have assisted the plant’s internal emergency departments so far in the explosion.

Alleghany County Executive Sara Innamorato said that an advisory has been issued "out of an abundance of caution" for residents within a one-mile radius of the facility to remain indoors, close all windows, and avoid activities that draw in outside air. Air quality monitors have not detected a rise in certain air pollution levels above federal standards.

This story will be updated.