Rescue crews raced to save multiple people trapped beneath the rubble after an explosion at a U.S. Steel plant near Pittsburgh on Monday, an official said.
The blast happened just before 11 a.m. at the Clairton Coke Works.
Abigail Gardner, director of communications for Allegheny County, told The Associated Press there are no confirmed fatalities yet.
Clairton Mayor Rich Lattanzi told KDKA-TV that there have been reports of multiple injuries.
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The Allegheny County Emergency Services said it had transported at least five people, though did not immediately provide more details.
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.
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.
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.
This is a breaking news story; check back for updates.
