Car rally for Rustic Ridge families raises thousands

A large event in support of families of the Rustic Ridge tragedy exceeded expectations Sunday, with thousands of attendees raising at least several thousands of dollars.

Rachel Vlosich co-organized a car rally expecting about 300 people to bring their muscle cars and designer vehicles to Plum Senior High School. More than 400 vehicles showed up less than an hour into the rally.

For Vlosich, it shows the Plum community and beyond really want to support the families of the Rustic Ridge explosion. In August, three homes were destroyed, and 10 homes were likely structurally compromised by a blast on Rustic Ridge Drive in Plum.

Six people were killed: Paul Oravitz, 56; Heather Oravitz, 51; and neighbors Mike Thomas, 57; Kevin Sebunia, 55; Casey Clontz, 38, and son Keegan Clontz, 12. All were in the Oravitz home at 141 Rustic Ridge Drive at the time of the explosion.

“Even after a tragedy like this, for this many people to show that the community does really care, it means a lot,” said Vlosich.

Hundreds of muscle cars already here at Plum Senior High school for car rally to benefit the families of the Rustic Ridge explosion disaster. pic.twitter.com/fuLCxsndM6

— Ryan Deto (@RyanDeto) October 1, 2023

Each car donated at least $10 for the rally, and Vlosich said many donated more, including some giving $100. The event also had a 50-50 raffle with donations from many local businesses. All told, that means several thousand dollars for Rustic Ridge families.

Matt Panaia of Delmont brought his 1930 Ford Model A roadster to the rally. Panaia said all his kids went to Plum High School, so he wanted to come out and offer any help he could.

“I wanted to show my support,” he said. “It’s absolutely important to see everyone out here.”

Mario Mercurio of Penn Hills said he was pleased with the turnout and said he brought his 2009 Mustang GT to support the families.

In addition to 400 vehicles, thousands of attendees tailgated, enjoyed food trucks, and listened to music. Businesses like Heinke car care, Mojo’s restaurant, and others donated items for the raffle. Local fire departments also brought engines to the rally.

Ross Shapiro of Monroeville runs the Burgh Built organization that puts together car shows. The group helped to bring out vehicles for the Rustic Ridge rally. He said the large participation for Sunday’s event shows the consistent and growing support that people have for good causes.

“We just love coming out for a good cause,” Shapiro said.