CHARLESTON, WV – Gov. Jim Justice and First Lady Cathy Justice issued a statement today after learning of the death of coal mine electrician Steven Vernon Keeney, 40, of Sylvester, WV. The incident took place just after midnight this morning at the Panther Creek Mining, LLC, American Eagle Mine in Cabin Creek, WV.
“Our brave mine electricians are right there underground with our coal miners every day, doing courageous and important work that allows us to keep the lights on across the entire country. Today, we are heartbroken for the loss of one of these heroes: Steven Keeney. Cathy and I ask everyone to join us in praying for his family, friends, and the entire West Virginia mining community.”
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Original statement from the West Virginia Office of Miners' Health, Safety and Training:
CHARLESTON, WV – The West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training confirms a fatal incident occurred Tuesday, September 17, 2019 at the Panther Creek Mining, LLC, American Eagle Mine in Kanawha County.
Preliminary information indicates that Steven Vernon Keeney, 40, of Sylvester, WV, died from injuries sustained from an apparent electrical shock that occurred at approximately 12:18 a.m.
Mr. Keeney was a certified electrician at the mine. Inspectors from the West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training are continuing to investigate the incident.