Clairton Coke Works: Two Dead, Dozens Injured Due To Massive Explosion

Liputan6.com, Jakarta A tragic incident rocked the U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works facility in Pennsylvania on Monday, August 11, 2025.

The massive explosion, which occurred shortly before 11:00 a.m. local time, resulted in fatalities and serious injuries.

The initial explosion was reported at 10:51 a.m. EDT in the coke battery operations area, followed by several secondary explosions.

The facility, located approximately 20 miles south of Pittsburgh, became the center of attention after the incident.

According to Fox Business, two people were reported killed in the incident, and at least ten others were injured.

One of the victims has been identified as 39-year-old Timothy Quinn.

"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," David B. Burritt, President and Chief Executive Officer of United States Steel Corporation said.

"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." 

A rescue operation is underway for people trapped under rubble following an explosion at a Pennsylvania steel plant, county officials said.It's not clear how many people are trapped from the blast at the US Steel Clairton Coke Works plant in Clairton. https://t.co/wW0te3EYBQ pic.twitter.com/6QssqJ9ied

— ABC News (@ABC) August 11, 2025

The explosion at the Clairton Coke Works occurred on Monday, August 11, 2025, shortly before 11:00 a.m. EDT.

Reports indicate the initial explosion occurred around 10:50 or 10:51 a.m., followed by a series of secondary explosions.

This incident shocked workers and nearby residents.

The specific location of the explosion was identified as coke batteries 13 and 14 within the U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works complex.

Some sources also indicate that the explosion occurred in the "reversing room" located between batteries 13 and 15.

This area is a crucial part of the coke plant's control system.

The Clairton Coke Works facility is located approximately 20 miles south of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

It is known as one of the largest coke producers in North America.

The incident at the Clairton Coke Works resulted in significant fatalities and injuries.

Two people were confirmed dead, and at least ten others sustained injuries.

Of these, five were reported in critical but stable condition, while five others received treatment and were released.

One of the deceased has been identified by his family as Timothy Quinn, a 39-year-old man.

Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman said there was an active search and rescue underway with dozens injured. 

Clairton Mayor Rich Lattanzi also told KDKA-TV that there have been reports of multiple injuries.

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.

"They have a tough job, and it’s a dangerous job," Lattanzi said of the plant workers. "My heart bleeds for every one of them and their families."

Twenty EMS agencies and 14 fire departments were deployed to the scene.

The Allegheny County Health Department issued an advisory for residents within a one-mile radius to remain indoors, but the advisory was later lifted after air quality monitors detected no soot or sulfur dioxide levels above federal standards.

The exact cause of the explosion at Clairton Coke Works remains the focus of an intensive investigation.

The Allegheny County Police Department, the fire chief, and the ATF (Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) are in the early stages of determining the cause of the incident.

Scott Buckiso, U.S. Steel's Senior Vice President and Chief Manufacturing Officer, stated that the coke battery involved in the explosion was in good condition.

He also emphasized that the battery was not scheduled for any major upgrades or repairs.

The battery involved in the incident was shut down for safety and investigative reasons.