Miner killed in accident in Wyoming County

WYOMING COUNTY, WV (WOWK) – A coal miner was killed while working in Wyoming County, West Virginia, Thursday morning.

According to the West Virginia Governor’s Department of Justice, the miner was identified as Virgil Paynter of Lynco. He was fatally injured while operating an excavator at the CM Energy Operations LP Surface Mine.

“This is truly a heartbreaking tragedy because we have lost another incredible hero from West Virginia,” Justice said. “We should all be grateful for Mr. Paynter’s service, just as we should be grateful to all miners in our state and country. We truly cannot appreciate our miners enough for their work providing energy and producing steel for our homes, our state and our nation. This is an incredible tragedy and Cathy and I will keep this man and his loved ones in our prayers. We ask you to join us.”

This is the first coal mining fatality in West Virginia in 2024. Justice said the West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training and the Mine Safety and Health Administration are on site to investigate the incident.