PITTSBURGH, Aug 12 (HS): A massive explosion tore through the U.S. Steel Clairton Plant, located along a bend in the Monongahela River south of Pittsburgh, on Monday morning, killing two workers and injuring at least 10 others.

The blast occurred shortly before 11 a.m. ET in Coke Oven Batteries 13 and 14, according to plant officials. Emergency crews rushed to the scene, where debris and fire posed immediate hazards. By late evening, authorities confirmed that the body of the only missing employee had been recovered.

Scott Buckiso, Executive Vice President & Chief Manufacturing Officer of U.S. Steel, confirmed in a press conference that two workers had lost their lives. One of the victims was identified as 39-year-old Timothy Quinn; the identity of the second victim remains undisclosed.

Allegheny County Police described the first explosion as “highly powerful,” followed by a secondary blast that caused less damage. Of the 10 injured, five remain in serious but stable condition and are being treated at local hospitals.

“This is a tragic day for all of us,” said Clairton Mayor Richard Lattanzi. “Our hearts go out to the families affected.”

In a statement, U.S. Steel said it is working closely with relevant authorities to investigate the cause of the accident. The Clairton Plant is the largest coke manufacturing facility in the United States, employing approximately 1,300 men and women. Producing more than 4 million tons of coke annually, the facility plays a crucial role in supplying fuel for smelting iron ore into steel. Coke is produced by heating coal in ovens at extremely high temperatures.

The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit steel community, raising concerns about industrial safety at one of the nation’s most important manufacturing hubs.

Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar