August 8, 2019 - An accident at the start of the day shift left a worker dead at a Kanawha County, West Virginia coal preparation plant.

According to the state Office of Miners’ Health, Safety, and Training, a mine electrician was killed by an apparent electric shock around 8 a.m. Wednesday. The incident happened at the Kanawha Eagle South Hollow Preparation Plant near Chesapeake.

An investigation is underway by state and federal mine regulators.

Later Wednesday, Gov. Jim Justice released the following statement on behalf of himself and the first lady:

“Cathy and I are deeply saddened to learn we lost one of our brave and dedicated West Virginia coal miners today. We ask everyone to join us in praying for this worker's family, friends, and the entire West Virginia mining community. All of our state’s incredible coal miners are true heroes for the important and courageous work they do every day.”