Two Dead, Ten Injured in U.S. Steel Explosion as Investigators Search for Cause

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Multiple explosions struck the Clairton Coke Works, a U.S. Steel facility just south of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on Monday morning, killing two workers and injuring 10 others. In a statement released by U.S. Steel, the explosion took place at around 11 a.m. at coke oven batteries 13 and 14, and emergency teams were immediately dispatched to the scene.

"Our top priority is the safety and well-being 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. 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." 

Around 11 a.m. ET on Monday, August 11, an incident occurred at U. S. Steel’s Clairton Plant, specifically at coke oven batteries 13 and 14. Emergency teams were immediately dispatched to the scene. 1/4 pic.twitter.com/mhohmJ1G7k

— U. S. Steel (@U_S_Steel) August 11, 2025

David Burritt, president and CEO of U.S. Steel, also remarked on the incident, stating that the company is "committed to providing every possible resource and support during this unimaginably difficult time."

The explosion was followed by secondary explosions, leaving behind a billow of black smoke that was seen rising from the plant, USA Today reported. The cause of the explosion remains under investigation. 

One of the two victims who died from the blast was identified as 39-year-old Timothy Quinn, while the second victim remains unidentified, CBS News reports. Meanwhile, 10 others were injured and were taken to a local hospital for treatment.

In an evening update to reporters, Allegheny County Emergency Services Chief Matt Brown told reporters that five of the wounded victims remain in "critical but stable" condition, while the other five were released.

Speaking with KDKA-TV following the incident, Clairton Mayor Richard Lattanzi noted how the facility has played a significant role in the community. 

"The mill is such a big part of Clairton. For anyone that works, how old or young you are, you have to work every day, you need to go home healthy, and some people are not going to see the same husband or son or somebody that's working the mill. It's just a sad day for Clairton," Mayor Lattanzi said.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro issued a statement saying that his administration "has been in constant contact with labor leaders and local officials."

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…

— Governor Josh Shapiro (@GovernorShapiro) August 11, 2025

The Clairton Coke Works is considered the largest coke manufacturing facility in the U.S., producing over 4 million tons of coke annually, and employs around 1,200–1,300 people. According to U.S. Steel, coke is used to melt iron ore, and it's produced by baking coal in coke ovens.

Prayer for Those Affected by the Clairton Explosion

God, 

We pray at this time for those affected by the explosion at the U.S. Steel plant in Clairton, especially for the friends, family, and loved ones of the two workers who have died as a result of the incident. Cover them with Your comfort and peace at this difficult time, and if they don't know You, we pray they would turn to You for their hope and salvation.

We are thankful for the five people who have since been released from the hospital, while we pray for healing for the other five who remain in stable but critical condition. Although we do not know what caused the explosion, we pray that there will be further clarity on the matter soon. 

In Jesus' name. 

Amen.

Photo Credit:  ©Getty Images/REBECCA DROKE/Contributor

Milton Quintanilla is a freelance writer and content creator. He is a contributing writer for CrosswalkHeadlines and the host of the For Your Soul Podcast, a podcast devoted to sound doctrine and biblical truth. He holds a Masters of Divinity from Alliance Theological Seminary.