– Coal miner excavator accident
– Governor statement coal miner fatality.
Accident – Death – Obituary News :
COAL MOUNTAIN, W.Va. (WVVA/Gray News) – The mining community in West Virginia is reeling from the loss of one of their own after a tragic incident claimed the life of coal miner, Virgil Paynter, at the CM Energy Operations LP Surface Mine on Thursday morning. Paynter was operating an excavator at the time of the accident.
Governor Jim Justice expressed his heartfelt condolences, stating, “This is truly a heartbreaking tragedy because we lost another incredible West Virginia hero. We should all be grateful for Mr. Paynter’s service, just as we should be thankful for all the miners across our state and country. We really can’t appreciate our miners enough for their work, which powers and creates steel for our homes, state, and nation. This is a tragedy beyond belief, and Cathy and I will keep this man and his loved ones in our prayers. We ask you to join us.”
This unfortunate incident marks the first coal mine fatality in West Virginia for the year 2024. Nationally, it is the second coal miner death, with the other occurring in January in Pennsylvania. According to the Associated Press, there were nine coal miner deaths in the U.S. last year.
The West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety, and Training and the Mine Safety and Health Administration are currently on-site at the mine to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragic event. Further details about the incident have not been disclosed at this time.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of Virgil Paynter during this difficult time. The mining community mourns the loss of one of their own, a dedicated individual who contributed to the vital industry that powers our state and nation.
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– coal miner killed on the job
– operating excavator governor says.
