A devastating explosion rocked the suburb of Plum in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on August 12, leading to the tragic deaths of five individuals.
On the subsequent day, Sunday, August 13, officials located and confirmed the death of the fifth individual, whose whereabouts were initially unknown. Search efforts had experienced delays due to weather-related concerns and ensuring the safety of the rescue teams, as announced by Plum Police Detective James Little.
The explosion’s epicenter was pinpointed to the intersection of Rustic Ridge Drive and Brookside Drive, around 10:23 am. The immediate aftermath saw one house obliterated, two more set on fire, and additional surrounding properties suffering varied damages, including broken windows.
Besides the five fatalities, three individuals incurred injuries. Following medical care, two have been discharged in stable health, while one remains critically injured.
Eye-witness Rafal Kolankowski recounted the sheer force of the explosion which broke his house windows. George Emanuele, another local, relayed his brave efforts to help save someone post-explosion.
A combined total of 18 fire departments from Allegheny and Westmoreland counties, alongside multiple water tankers, converged on the scene. Three homes faced total destruction, and over a dozen others received damage. The process of quelling the fire and ensuring gas line safety was undertaken promptly.
As the dust settles, the root cause of this tragic incident remains under analysis. Additionally, 57 firefighters received on-site treatment for heat-induced exhaustion.