Allegheny County authorities reported a devastating house explosion in the neighborhood of Plum.
The blast resulted in four deaths and one individual unaccounted for.
One person remains in critical condition at the hospital while two have been released.
Residents of the area were left shocked by the tragedy, with many having heard and felt the impact of the blast.
The explosion occurred around 10:30 am local time near Rustic Ridge and Brookside Drives.
Witnesses described a loud bang followed by flames that engulfed two homes as well as a third home which was completely destroyed.
George Emanuele, who lives nearby, recalled smelling what may have been gas before it happened.
He also witnessed an individual who had suffered from severe burns attempting to escape from their home and assisted them out of danger.
WATCH: House exploded in Plum, Pennsylvania, Ring camera footage shows
— Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) August 13, 2023
More than 20 firefighters responded to the scene while 18 fire departments from across Allegheny and Westmoreland counties gave assistance with water tankers.
Many were evaluated for heat exhaustion after hours of work trying to contain the fire spread and secure evidence for further investigation into its cause.
People’s Gas has since shut off service to about 50 homes in order to keep all residents safe while they continue working with Allegheny County Fire Marshal’s Office to determine what led to this terrible incident.
Multiple houses have caught fire after a reported explosion on Rustic Ridge DriveBrookside Drive in Plum Borough. One home is completely destroyed, over 30 fire units from around the region are here. Also multiple gas company vehicles are on site. Working to learn more. @KDKA pic.twitter.com/CgsBjqha8L
— Christopher DeRose (@ChrisDeRoseTV) August 12, 2023
