The co-proprietor of a residence that underwent a devastating explosion in western Pennsylvania over the previous weekend has tragically passed away due to injuries sustained in the catastrophic event. This explosion claimed the lives of his wife and four additional individuals.
Paul Oravitz, 56, who had suffered extensive burns covering a significant portion of his body, succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday while receiving treatment at a medical facility in Pittsburgh. The explosion occurred four days prior in the town of Plum, situated roughly 20 miles east of Pittsburgh.
The precise cause behind the explosion, which resulted in the destruction of three buildings and inflicted damage on at least twelve others, remains the subject of ongoing investigation. Authorities have noted that Paul Oravitz and his wife, Heather, had been facing difficulties with their hot water tank. Leading the inquiry into the incident is the Allegheny County fire marshal’s office, collaborating with local law enforcement agencies.
The explosion transpired shortly before 10:30 a.m. on a Saturday. Among the victims were Heather Oravitz, 51, who served as the community development director for Plum, Plum Borough Manager Michael Thomas, 57, and three other residents of the neighborhood: Kevin Sebunia, 55; Casey Clontz, 38; and Clontz’s 12-year-old son, Keegan.
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The residential development is situated upon abandoned mine land, bordered by shallow oil and gas wells, some of which have fallen into disuse. Two gas-producing wells remain operational within approximately 1000 feet (305 meters) of the affected home, and a pipeline runs along the rear of the development. However, as of now, there is no confirmation that any of these structures were involved in the explosion, as reported by the local newspaper.
