TUCKER COUNTY, W.Va. — Authorities are investigating a tragic mining accident that claimed the life of coal miner Joey Mitchell Jr. on Thursday morning at the Mountain View Mine, located near Davis, West Virginia. The incident has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit mining community and prompted a state and federal safety investigation.
According to officials, Mitchell, a respected and dedicated miner, was fatally injured during an early-morning incident inside the underground mine. Governor Patrick Morrisey confirmed the death in a public statement, expressing condolences to the miner’s family and colleagues. “All West Virginians should keep Joey’s family, friends, and fellow miners in their thoughts and prayers,” Morrisey said. “Our coal miners are among the hardest-working and most courageous people in our state. We owe these men and women an enduring debt of gratitude for their daily commitment to powering our communities and nation.”
Preliminary reports indicate that a second miner was also injured and airlifted from the scene for medical treatment. The individual’s condition has not yet been released. Emergency crews responded swiftly, working to secure the mine and ensure that all other workers were accounted for and safe.
The West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety, and Training, along with federal mine safety officials, has launched an investigation to determine the cause and circumstances of the deadly incident. Authorities are expected to review safety procedures, equipment conditions, and compliance records to identify potential contributing factors.
The Mountain View Mine is operated by Mettiki Coal, a company with operations throughout the region. The mine plays a key role in the local economy, employing many residents and supporting Tucker County’s workforce. As news of the accident spread, community members gathered to offer condolences, remembering Mitchell as a hardworking man who represented the enduring spirit of West Virginia’s mining heritage.
Coal mining remains one of West Virginia’s most vital yet hazardous industries. Despite advancements in safety standards, risks persist for the miners who power the state’s economy. As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of Joey Mitchell Jr., honoring his dedication to his work and his contribution to an industry that remains central to the Mountain State’s identity.
