Charleston, W.Va. – Governor Jim Justice released a statement Friday night following the death of a coal miner in Logan County.
Gary Chapman, 33, from South Williamson, Kentucky, passed away Friday evening due to injuries sustained at the Mountaineer II Mine near Sharples, West Virginia.
When a miner is lost, it impacts not only the local community but the entire state of West Virginia, Gov. Justice stated. Mr. Chapman’s passing reminds us to deeply appreciate all our coal miners. They keep our nation moving forward, and we will never forget his dedication and service. Cathy and I are keeping his family in our thoughts and ask others to do the same.
The West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety, and Training, along with the Mine Safety and Health Administration, is investigating the incident.
This is the fourth mining fatality in West Virginia this year.