Governor Justice issues statement on coal miner’s death in Taylor County

CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – West Virginia Governor Jim Justice and First Lady Cathy Justice have expressed their condolences following the death of coal miner Colton Walls, 34, of Bruceton Mills.

Walls died on Thursday afternoon from injuries sustained while working as a longwall electrician at the Arch Coal, Leer Mining Complex in Taylor County.

In a statement, Gov. Justice emphasized the critical role of miners in West Virginia, calling the loss deeply felt.

“Our miners are the backbone of West Virginia, and every loss we experience hits us to our deepest cores,” Justice said. “The heart and soul of West Virginia are found in our coal miners, and today, we grieve the loss of one of our own.”

Gov. Justice went on to commend Walls for his dedication and bravery and urged West Virginians to keep his family in their thoughts.

Walls is survived by his wife, Jonda, and their three children.

The West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety, and Training, along with the Mine Safety and Health Administration, have launched an investigation into the incident.