Governor and First Lady Justice give statement about Wyoming County coal miner death

WYOMING COUNTY, WV (WVNS) — A statement was given by Governor Jim Justice and First Lady Justice about the death of a coal miner in Wyoming County.

On the morning of Thursday, May 16, 2024, Virgil Paynter, of Lynco, was fatally injured while using an excavator while at the CM Energy Operations LP Surface Mine in Wyoming County. Paynter’s death is the first West Virginia coal mine fatality in 2024.

This is truly a heartbreaking tragedy because we lost another incredible West Virginia hero. We should all be grateful for Mr. Paynter’s service, just as we should be thankful for all the miners across our state and country. We really can’t appreciate our miners enough for their work, which powers and creates steel for our homes, state, and nation. This is a tragedy beyond belief, and Cathy and I will keep this man and his loved ones in our prayers. We ask you to join us.

Governor Justice

An investigation will be handled at the mine location by the Mine Safety and Health Administration and the West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety, and Training.

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