Following deadly steel plant explosion, Pittsburgh bishop calls for prayer

Bishop Mark A. Eckman of Pittsburgh is calling for prayer, following a deadly explosion at a US Steel facility in Pennsylvania Aug. 11 that killed at least one and injured 10, with one person still unaccounted for.

Bishop Mark A. Eckman elevates the sacred host and chalice at his installation Mass at St. Paul Cathedral in Pittsburgh July 14, 2025. Bishop Eckman is calling for prayer after a deadly blast rocked the Clairton Coke Works. (OSV News photo/Nick Sciarappa, courtesy Diocese of Pittsburgh)

The blast rocked the Clairton Coke Works along the Monongahela River just south of Pittsburgh. The plant produces the carbon-rich coke from metallurgical coal for use in steel production. The process takes place in a series of superheated ovens known as batteries.

The Clairton facility has some 1,300 staff on site, according to US Steel.

“It is with a heavy heart that I join our neighbors in mourning after the tragic explosions earlier today at the Clairton Coke Works,” Bishop Eckman said in a statement. “My deepest prayers are with the person who has died, with those who are injured, and with the workers who are still missing. I pray especially for their families, friends, co-workers, and all who are carrying heavy worry in their hearts.”

Chief Matthew Brown of Allegheny County Emergency Medical Services said in a press conference Aug. 11 that 20 EMS agencies and 14 local fire departments had responded to the scene, arriving before 11 a.m.

“We give thanks for the courage of the first responders, medical teams, and all who are working tirelessly to bring help and hope in this difficult moment,” said Bishop Eckman.

The plant, which has come under previous scrutiny for safety and environmental concerns, has been stabilized, according to officials. The cause of the blast remains under investigation.

“At times like this, our faith calls us to stand together in compassion, in prayer, and in care for one another,” said Bishop Eckman. “May our parish communities be places of comfort for those who are hurting, and may the Lord grant peace to the one who has died, strength to those who mourn, and safety to all who serve.”