David Mitchell Jr. : the case of “John Doe”

The Tragic Explosion in Pennsylvania

An 89-year-old man and an 87-year-old woman lost their lives in a devastating house explosion that shook Crescent Township, just outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The victims were identified as David Mitchell Jr. and Helen Mitchell by the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office.

Details of the Incident

The explosion occurred at 8:54 a.m. on a fateful Tuesday morning, completely leveling the home and causing a fire to rage throughout the house’s foundation and along the hillside, according to local officials.

Witness Accounts

Residents in the area were shocked by the intensity of the explosion. John Bundy, who works at a nearby factory, described the moment as feeling like a “mushroom cloud explosion.” He and his nephew were among the first on the scene, witnessing the devastation firsthand.

Logan Barcia, Bundy’s nephew, added, “The whole lot was just completely leveled – nothing remaining.”

Response from Authorities

Fire Chief Andrew Tomer expressed the sheer impact of the explosion, stating, “We all felt and heard the explosion. You could feel it in your chest.” Despite the destruction, no injuries were reported.

Investigation Ongoing

The cause of the explosion is yet to be determined, with officials noting the presence of natural gas and propane on site from private wells. At least two other homes in the vicinity were also damaged as a result of the blast.

Final Thoughts

ABC News’ Chris Looft contributed to this report.