August 15, 2024 - The federal Mine Safety and Health Administration has released its preliminary report on the death of a Fairmont coal miner. 

Joe Crandall, 57, of Fairmont, was injured Aug. 5 while working at Arch Coal’s Leer Mining Complex near Grafton. Crandall died due to his injuries two days later, the third mining fatality in West Virginia this year. 

While using an air lifting bag to rerail a longwall electrical power car, Crandall was “struck in the head,” according to the MSHA report. 

Crandall, who worked as a motorman, had more than 11 years’ experience in the mining industry. 

Gov. Jim Justice and Sen. Joe Manchin, I-W.Va., each issued statements mourning Crandall’s passing. 

“Any time we lose a miner, it’s a tragedy beyond belief,” Justice said. “Mr. Crandall dedicated more than a decade to powering our homes and state through his selfless work. This tragedy is a reminder that we should be eternally grateful for our coal miners.”

“West Virginians and all Americans are forever grateful for courageous miners like Joe, who put their lives on the line each day to power our nation,” Manchin said. “We ask that all West Virginians join us in keeping his family, friends and loved ones in our prayers during this devastating time.”