On Monday, the explosion rocked the Clairton Coke Works, the largest coking facility in North America, situated approximately 15 miles south of Pittsburgh. Local response teams, including the state’s emergency management services, are actively conducting rescue efforts, as US Senator John Fetterman reports witnessing the ongoing search at the site.

The plant, which employs around 1,300 workers, is known for producing coke, a crucial component in steel manufacturing. US Steel President and CEO David B Burritt stated that they are cooperating fully with authorities to determine the explosion's cause. While Burritt confirmed that the facility is stable, he acknowledged that the investigation is ongoing.

Clairton's Mayor Richard Lattanzi expressed sorrow over the incident, reflecting on the community's distress. The Clairton Coke Works has faced scrutiny for pollution-related issues in the past, leading to millions in fines and settlements. In the previous year, US Steel faced penalties totaling nearly $2 million from the Allegheny County Health Department for various violations, including issues related to emissions and pollution control devices.

Authorities are urging local residents near the site to stay indoors as the situation unfolds.