1 dead, 1 critical, several unaccounted for after explosion destroys 3 homes, damages others

PLUM, Pa. (AP) — Authorities say one person is dead, another was critically injured and several people are unaccounted for following a house explosion in western Pennsylvania that destroyed three structures and damaged at least a dozen others. Allegheny County officials say three people were taken to hospitals after the blast shortly before 10:30 a.m. Saturday in the borough of Plum. One was said to be in critical condition and two were stable. County spokesperson Amie Downs says emergency responders reported people trapped under debris after the blast and the fires that engulfed two homes in flames. Crews from at least 18 fire departments were called to the scene.