Coal Miner Dies In Wyoming County; 6th Fatality In State This Year

Updated on Friday, Dec. 19, 2025 at 3:45 p.m.

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) has released the preliminary report identifying the victim as 63-year-old Robert White, a foreman with 41 years of mining experience.

The report indicates White was underground at the time of the incident and was standing next to a moving supply tractor.

Original Story

A miner died Thursday at the Lower War Eagle mine in Wyoming County, according to a press release from Gov. Patrick Morrisey. 

“Denise and I were deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a coal miner today at the Lower War Eagle mine in Wyoming County,” Morrisey said. “Our hearts go out to his family, loved ones and coworkers during this sorrowful time.” 

Details are scarce at the moment, but the governor said the West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training responded immediately and is conducting a full investigation. According to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), the incident occurred around 7:30 a.m. Thursday, and has been classified as a “Powered Haulage” accident. MSHA defines powered haulage as equipment such as shuttle cars, scoops, locomotives and front end loaders. 

There have been eight coal mine fatalities nationwide this year, according to MSHA. Six took place in West Virginia. Another happened in Ohio and another in Pennsylvania. Three of West Virginia’s six deaths have occurred in the past six weeks. 

Last month, Morrisey ordered flags to be flown at half staff to honor the life of Steve Lipscomb, who died at the Rolling Thunder Mine in Nicholas County, and the four other West Virginia coal miners who lost their lives on the job in 2025.

“Each day, West Virginia miners perform difficult and demanding tasks. They do this to provide for their families, to build the communities, and to forge a better future for the next generation of West Virginians,” Morrisey said. “It is that work, their strength, and their dedication that defines our state and our nation. I ask that all West Virginians lift this miner’s family, friends, and community up in your prayers and keep them in your thoughts through the difficult days ahead.”

Morrisey has scheduled a press conference at 12:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19 at his Charleston office where he is expected to further discuss Thursday’s incident.