RALEIGH COUNTY, WV (WOWK) – A coal miner has died after an incident in a Raleigh County mine last week.

West Virginia Governor Jim Justice and First Lady Cathy Justice issued a joint statement following the death of 33-year-old Ashley Cogar of Erbacon. Cogar passed away Wednesday morning due to injuries she sustained at the Wyco Surface Mine last week.

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“We are heartbroken by the passing of Ashley Cogar, a brave miner lost too soon. I’m told she was incredibly hardworking and loved her family,” Justice said. “Our miners are true heroes, providing the essential work needed to energize and power steel-making in our country and worldwide. Without them, we wouldn’t be able to live as we do, and their efforts deserve our utmost respect. Unfortunately, this tragic loss highlights the daily risks our fearless miners face. Cathy and I extend our heartfelt condolences to Ashley’s family and friends during this difficult time. We ask you to please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.”

Cogar is the second West Virginia miner who has died in a mining-related incident in 2024. The first happened in May when Virgil Paynter of Lynco was fatally injured while operating an excavator at CM Energy Operations LP Surface Mine.

The West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training and the Mine Safety and Health Administration are investigating the incident.

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