Coal miner killed in Wyoming County accident

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

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

“This is truly a heartbreaking tragedy because we lost another incredible West Virginia hero,” Justice said. “We should all be grateful for Mr. Paynter’s service, just as we should be thankful for all the miners across our state and country. We really can’t appreciate our miners enough for their work, which powers and creates steel for our homes, state, and nation. This is a tragedy beyond belief, 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 death in West Virginia in 2024. Justice says the West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training and the Mine Safety and Health Administration are at the mine site to investigate the incident.