NICHOLAS COUNTY, W.Va. — The search for Steve Lipscomb, a 42-year-old miner from Elkview, ended in heartbreak Thursday morning when recovery teams located his body inside the Rolling Thunder Mine, more than five days after a sudden flood trapped him underground. The discovery came at approximately 7:30 a.m., marking the devastating conclusion to an intensive search-and-rescue operation that had gripped the state of West Virginia since Saturday.
Authorities said the flooding occurred when miners accidentally struck an unexpected pocket of water deep within the mine. The powerful surge forced most of the 18-man crew to flee to safety, but Lipscomb — the crew’s foreman — was last seen ensuring that his workers escaped. His absence immediately triggered an emergency response involving local, state, and federal mining officials.
Governor Patrick Morrisey’s office confirmed that rescue teams were finally able to enter the mine early Thursday after water levels receded to safe levels. Alpha Metallurgical Resources, the company that owns the site, identified Lipscomb as a longtime employee who had worked with the company since 2006. “Steve was a respected leader, a dedicated foreman, and a true friend to many,” said Andy Eidson, CEO of Alpha Metallurgical Resources. “His actions during the flooding were nothing short of heroic. Our prayers go out to his wife, children, and everyone mourning this terrible loss.”
Governor Morrisey also released a heartfelt statement, calling Lipscomb’s loss “absolutely heartbreaking.” He praised the rescue teams who had worked tirelessly for days, saying, “Their courage and determination reflect the very best of West Virginia. Denise and I extend our deepest prayers to Mr. Lipscomb’s family and to all those who worked selflessly to bring him home.”
Lipscomb was well known among his peers not just for his leadership but also for his commitment to safety. A certified advanced EMT, he had previously rendered aid to a fellow miner after an incident in Raleigh County earlier this year. His colleagues described him as compassionate, dependable, and always willing to put others first — qualities that defined both his life and his final moments underground.
The rescue operation faced extreme challenges, with dive teams battling low oxygen and over three million gallons of water to be pumped from the mine. Crews worked in grueling 12-hour shifts, removing water at nearly 6,000 gallons per minute. Though their efforts ended in tragedy, Lipscomb’s bravery and dedication have left an enduring mark on the mining community. His sacrifice will be remembered as a testament to the courage and brotherhood that define West Virginia’s miners.
