Mike Darnay: Digital Producer and Photojournalist
Mike Darnay is a digital producer and photojournalist at CBS Pittsburgh, with experience at Vox Media and the Mon Valley Independent. He covers a range of topics, including breaking news, sports, and crime.
A Major Fire in Washington County
A significant fire broke out late Thursday night, destroying a contracting business in Washington County. The KDKA Drone Team captured aerial footage of the event, showing extensive flames and damage at Maund Industries along Route 88 in California Borough.
The Washington County dispatchers received the first call about the fire around 10:30 p.m. Thursday. California Volunteer Fire Department Chief Tom Hartley reported that 15 crews responded to the scene, facing challenges due to multiple explosions.
"Lots of explosions," Hartley noted, "tires, propane tanks, a little bit of everything. It kept you on your toes."
Neighbors reported hearing popping sounds, followed by a large explosion and what they described as mushroom clouds and fireballs. The building was completely destroyed, and the business lost all its equipment.
Maund Industries describes itself as a general contractor offering services such as asphalt and concrete paving, excavating and hauling, and masonry supplies. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the fire marshal is investigating the cause.