Governor and First Lady Justice release statement about the death of a coal miner in Taylor County

TAYLOR COUNTY, WV (WVNS) — Governor and First Lady Justice released a statement about the death of a Taylor County coal miner on Friday, October 4, 2024.

According to a press release from Governor Justice, 34-year-old Colton Walls, of Bruceton Mills, died on the afternoon of Friday, October 4, 2024 due to injuries caused when he was working as a longwall electrician at the Arch Coal, Leer Mining Complex.

Our miners are the backbone of West Virginia, and every loss we experience hits us to our deepest cores. The heart and soul of West Virginia are found in our coal miners, and today, we grieve the loss of one of our own. I’m told that Mr. Walls was truly dedicated, hardworking, and brave, and I know he’ll be dearly missed by many.

It’s moments like these that remind us of the incredible sacrifices made by those who have the courage to be a miner. So, please hold his family and loved ones close in your hearts tonight. Cathy and I will continue to keep him and all our other miners in our prayers.

Governor Justice

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

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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