HOPKINS COUNTY, Ky. (LEX 18) — The state Energy and Environment Cabinet announced that a coal miner has died from injuries he sustained in an accident Thursday at a Hopkins County mine.
The press release said that 39-year-old Jeremy Elder, of Providence, sustained critical injuries as a result of a vehicle accident at Warrior Coal LLC. He was brought up to the surface but he did not survive.
All mining operations were shut down Thursday and production will remain closed Friday in the area where the accident took place.
“Across the Commonwealth, our hearts are broken following the tragic passing of Jeremy Elder on Thursday in Western Kentucky,” said Gov. Bevin. “We ask that all who recognize the healing power of prayer, please join us in remembering his wife, children, friends, and community as they mourn the loss of this hard working man. May we never take for granted the vital work and personal sacrifice of our dedicated miners.”
“My deepest sympathies go out to the Elder family,” Kentucky Energy and Environment Secretary Charles G. Snavely said. “We are investigating this accident and are determined to do everything that we can to prevent any such future loss of life among miners.”
The Kentucky Department for Natural Resources, Division of Mine Safety, sent investigators to the site following the accident. The division last inspected that mine in June, according to the press release.
