Associated Press Published

State Cites Patriot Coal in Mine Accident

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State mining officials are citing Patriot Coal for serious violations during a severe coal burst that killed two miners in May.

The enforcement action by the state Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training says the mine did not have proper support in its walls and roofs.

On May 12, miners Eric Legg and Gary Hensley were killed at the Brody Mine No. 1 after coal shot out at them.

A report released Monday says a similar coal burst occurred three days earlier in the Boone County mine. It covered a worker in coal up to his waist, but didn’t injure him. Mining continued the next day.

The Charleston Gazette first reported on the enforcement.

Patriot spokeswoman Janine Orf said the company can’t comment on ongoing investigations or legal matters.