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Kentucky coal miner dies from injuries suffered last week

Posted at 2:21 PM, May 31, 2019
and last updated 2019-05-31 14:21:01-04

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Kentucky authorities say a coal miner has died from injuries suffered last week at a mine in southeastern Kentucky.

The state Energy and Environment Cabinet says Felix (Matt) North of Miracle died Thursday. North suffered the fatal injuries on May 22 while working at a Rex Coal Co. mine at Cumberland.

Officials say the 48-year-old North was operating a machine when a “rib” wall collapsed, causing injuries to his lower body. North was a mine operator with 12 years of experience.

Officials say investigators were sent to the site and mining operations were shut down and remained closed until May 28, when the Division of Mine Safety approved an action plan submitted by the mine. Officials say a mine safety division inspection of the mine that began in April is ongoing.