5 people, including a child, are dead after an explosion destroys 3 homes and damages 12 others

Five individuals, including an adolescent, lost their lives when an explosion occurred in western Pennsylvania, demolishing three homes and causing damage to twelve more, according to information provided by the authorities on Sunday.

Police Chief Lanny Conley of Plum Borough stated that the explosion happened shortly before 10:30 a.m. on Saturday in the borough, approximately 20 miles (32 kilometers) east of Pittsburgh. Four adults and one child were found dead after the incident.

Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald expressed profound sorrow, stating, “This is undeniably a tragic day and a sorrowful time, not just for the residents of Plum but for the entire community and region.”

Three victims were taken to hospitals, of whom two were discharged, and one person is still in critical condition, as reported by Steve Imbarlina, Allegheny County’s deputy director of fire and emergency services. Fifty-seven firefighters received treatment at the scene for minor problems.

The Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office will be releasing more details regarding the deceased.

Police Chief Conley requested the public to provide space and respect to the families as they cope with this calamity.

According to county spokesperson Amie Downs, people were found trapped under the debris after the explosion leveled one house and set two others on fire. Assistance from at least 18 fire departments, along with water tankers from Allegheny and Westmoreland counties, helped to extinguish the flames.

The county fire marshal’s office, together with local and county law enforcement, is investigating the cause of the explosion. Imbarlina emphasized that the inquiry would be exhaustive, involving extensive forensic testing, and could take “months if not years.”

Peoples Gas president, Michael Huwar, noted that the company’s checks for gas leaks and consistent pressure at regulation stations indicated that their system was functioning as intended.

In response to the incident, gas and electric service were turned off. On Sunday, officials unveiled a plan to start restoring services, with electricity expected to be reconnected to nearly all residences.

Governor Josh Shapiro expressed his sympathy, assuring the affected families of support, saying that he and the first lady were “praying for the families” and promising them that “as you rebuild, we will have your back.”

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More about explosion

• News report on Pennsylvania explosion
• Allegheny County explosion investigation
• Statement from Gov. Josh Shapiro on Pennsylvania explosion