Deadly Mine Collapse Under Investigation In West Virginia
CAMERON, WV (KDKA)- State officials are investigating a deadly accident at a coal mine in Marshall County, West Virginia.
Emergency crews were called to the Cameron Portal of the Murray Energy coal mine around 8:50 p.m. on Sunday.
Crews found three injured workers had been rescued by other mine workers.
One of the victims later died from his injuries. He has been identified as 45-year-old John "Mike" Garloch of Neffs, Ohio.
Another miner was flown to Ruby Memorial Hospital and the third miner was taken by ambulance to Wheeling Hospital.
Sen. Shelley Moore Capito issued a statement Monday afternoon.
"My thoughts and prayers are with the family of John M. 'Mike' Garloch, who tragically lost his life in the Marshall County mine collapse last night, as well as the miners who suffered injuries. Hard-working coal miners play an important role in our state and ensuring their safety is paramount."
An investigation into the collapse will be handled by state and federal authorities, along with Murray Energy.
The initial report from the W. Va. Office of Miners' Health, Safety and Training says "the cause of the incident was a fall of roof and rib on the 12 east longwall face."
Just last week, federal regulator issued more than a dozen citations at the mine.
The citations concerned roof plans and protection from roof, face and rib falls.
What we don't know is if the alleged violations were in the area of the mine where the accident occurred.
Murray Energy operates coal mines in West Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky, Utah and Illinois.
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