Plum Explosion
Six people died as a result of an explosion at a house in the Rustic Ridge neighborhood of Plum on Aug. 12, 2023. The explosion at 141 Rustic Ridge Drive destroyed that home, and a subsequent fire consumed the houses immediately to the right and left. Those who died were: Paul Oravitz and his wife, Heather Oravitz; neighbor Casey Clontz and his son, Keegan Clontz; neighbor and borough Manager Michael Thomas; and neighbor Kevin Sebunia. All were in the home when it exploded.
In all, three houses were destroyed and as many as 12 families were displaced. Ten homes were identified as possibly being structurally compromised. This page is dedicated to coverage of the tragedy.
In all, three houses were destroyed and as many as 12 families were displaced. Ten homes were identified as possibly being structurally compromised. This page is dedicated to coverage of the tragedy.
Help for Rustic Ridge residents
Plum Borough officials have released an online list of contacts that Rustic Ridge residents to get help for various needs. It also includes Plum School District contacts. Here is the link.
Signs of anxiety and stress in young children
- Stomach ache
- Not wanting to go to sleep
- Changes in eating habits
- Being more clingy
- Hair or skin picking, chewing on nails, hair or clothing
- Having unusual separation anxiety
- Headaches and/or fatigue
- More explosive tantrums/behaviors