Police are Calling Domestic Terrorism After Pennsylvania U.S. Steel Planet Explosion Kills 2 People

Tuesday August 12th, 2025 9:43 PM- Clairton PA- An unfortunate incident took place at Pennsylvania steel plant outside of Clairton where 1 person was killed and 12 other victims had been killed after deadly explosion of a steel based manufacturing planet ignited an explosion still under investigation. Police are not ruling out terrorism at the Coke Works Planet in Clairton at the industrial factory.

The time the incident of the explosion happened as 11 AM at Clairton where previously during the early hours 2 people suspected of considerable unthought of unsuspected detection, but officials between the time of the explosion to the time they made the announcement of the press conference said on Monday afternoon that a single individual subject is a person of interest at this time during the pending investigation.

A second wounded victim affected by the explosion died from life-threatening injuries Alleghany County Emergency Services confirmed on Monday had passed away in correspondence source reference to with the deadly blast earlier that particular day.

Emergency vehicles at scene in Clairton, PA
The explosion happened just before 11 a.m. at the Clairton Coke Works, in Clairton, Pennsylvania. (KDKA via NNS) The person who died, officials said, was the last of two individuals who were initially unaccounted for.

The 10 employees from the factory had been transported to a nearby hospital to receive treatment services for their injuries, five victim had been critical condition but stable condition, and five were taken care of then discharged when treatment has been delivered.

here were multiple individuals injured and treated on the scene, officials added, though an exact number has not been provided.


Officials said multiple people have been treated for injuries, though their current status was not immediately known.

"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."

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."

Union District 10 Director United Steelworker Bernie Hall articulated in a statement that Union officials were on site addressing the situation and assisting aid to its members.

"While we are still determining the scope of the tragedy, we are aware that multiple workers are receiving medical treatment for their injuries," Hall said. "In the coming days, we will work with the appropriate authorities to ensure a thorough investigation and to see that our members get the support they need."

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.

"Multiple explosions occurred today at U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works in Clairton, PA. Since then, my Administration has been in constant contact with labor leaders and local officials, and I’ve spoken with @ACE_Innamorato to reiterate that the Commonwealth is here to provide any resources needed," the governor wrote.

"Injured employees have now been transported to local hospitals to receive care, and search-and-rescue efforts remain active at the plant. If you’re in the area, continue to follow the instructions of local authorities," Shapiro continued. "Lori and I are eternally thankful for the bravery of our first responders — and we continue to pray for the entire Clairton community."

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.