Explosion Kills 2, Injures 10 at U.S. Steel Clairton Coke Works, Pa.

An explosion occurred at U.S. Steel's Clairton Coke Works in Pennsylvania, resulting in one fatality, ten injuries, and one person initially unaccounted for but later found deceased. The plant, the largest producer of high-grade metallurgical coke in the Western Hemisphere, continues limited coke production despite the damage, as officials investigate the cause. This incident follows several past explosions and accidents at the plant, including a non-fatal explosion in February 2025 and a fatality in 2009, highlighting ongoing safety challenges in the high-risk coke-making process. Over 30 first responder units, including 14 fire departments and 20 EMS crews, responded to the mass casualty event, and donations of supplies are being requested to support emergency services. U.S. Steel President and CEO David Burritt emphasized safety as a top priority and committed to honoring this principle amid the investigation. OSHA is also involved in investigating the recent explosion as part of its role overseeing workplace safety.