A coal miner died Monday at the Mingo Logan Coal Company’s Mountaineer II Mine in Sharples.
Governor Jim Justice announced 49-year-old Brian Wallen died. Wallen was an electrician 25 years of mining experience.
Governor Justice issued a statement about the mining death.
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“Cathy and I are deeply saddened to learn that we lost one of our West Virginia coal miners today. We should never take for granted the strength and the courage of those who go underground to do the incredibly important work that it takes to power our communities, our state, and our nation with coal for electricity generation and for steel making. Our hearts ache for this brave man, his family, and the entire coal mining community for this terrible loss. I ask all West Virginians to join Cathy and I in praying for all his loved ones during this difficult time.”
United States Senators Shelly Moore-Capito and Joe Manchin released statements about the incident.
Capito tweeted, “Heartbroken to learn of the passing of Brian Wallen, one of our brave coal miners from Logan County. Charlie and I send our prayers of peace and comfort to his family and loved ones, as well as his fellow coal miners tonight,”
“Gayle and I are deeply saddened to hear of the death of Brian D. Wallen. We are keeping his family, friends and loved ones in our prayers during this incredibly difficult time. Brian was an Assistant Chief Electrician with 25 years in the mines. His service to our state and country must never be forgotten,” Manchin said.
“We know we can never repay our miners’ sacrifices, and we are forever grateful they put their lives on the line every day to power our great nation. Gayle and I, along with all West Virginians, send our sympathies to Brian’s family and community as they mourn the loss of their loved one and fellow West Virginian.”
No further details have been released