Three Killed, Several Injured After Car Slams Into Biomat USA Plasma Center On Western Avenue
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Three people were killed and others were injured when a car crashed into a plasma donor center in Pittsburgh's Manchester neighborhood Saturday morning.
It was a tragic Saturday, the car barreled into Biomat USA Plasma Center just after 11:30 a.m. About 10 employees and five donors were inside the building when the crash happened.
"There were obviously workers and donors inside the location. The car is about 200 feet within the building. There is extensive structural collapse inside the building," said Wendell Hissrich, Public Safety Director for the city of Pittsburgh.
It was an intense scene, first responders rushed to put out the fire that sparked after the crash and searched for possible trapped victims.
"We have multiple casualties and firefighters, and medics are inside looking for more victims," said Maurice Matthews, assistant public information officer for the city of Pittsburgh.
Three people are dead, one of those victims was in the vehicle.
One person is critically injured, and another person has minor injuries. Many others were evaluated by EMS on the scene. A paramedic and two firefighters were treated for smoke inhalation.
Witnesses told police the Hyundai Santa Fe was traveling at a high speed on Western Avenue before crashing.
"I was sitting here with my tow truck, the car had to be doing over 100 and went through the building," said Jason Bezts, witness.
"The whole building started rumbling, first I thought earthquake," said Shane McDevitt, witness.
The damage to the building is substantial, outside, and inside.
"I don't believe it'll be a total collapse. There is a lot of suspended ceiling that has dropped down, obviously, there's a lot of water inside," said Hissrich.
Biomat USA, Grifols released a statement that said:
"We are deeply saddened by today's tragic incident at our Pittsburgh plasma donor center. The safety of our employees and donors is always our first priority. We are grateful to the first responders and our employees who acted quickly to prevent any additional injuries. Biomat USA is cooperating with the local authorities as the investigation incident continues."
The charred vehicle was removed and towed away. The gaping hole in the building was patched up by restoration crews.
"You wake up every morning and you don't know what's going to happen to you, whether you're walking down the street or giving blood, it's a tragedy. First responders did everything they could to save the individuals that were in the building," Hissrich said.
"I have to compliment the rescue effort by EMS, police, and fire and all of the assisting agencies here," he added.
No word on what may have caused this crash.
Pittsburgh police are investigating.
There is a city camera on a pole in front of the building. They are hoping the footage helps the investigation.