NICHOLAS COUNTY, W.Va. — Crews have recovered the body of a mine foreman who went missing Saturday when the Rolling Thunder Mine in Nicholas County experienced flooding.
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey identified the man as Steve Lipscomb. Lipscomb had disappeared about three-quarters of a mile into the mine complex, prompting a large-scale search effort.
Authorities have not released further details about the cause of the flooding or additional safety measures being taken at the mine.
U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) released a statement following the news of the death of Lipscomb:
“Tragic news out of our state this morning with the loss of Steve Lipscomb. Charlie and I offer our most sincere condolences to his friends, family, and co-workers during this difficult time. Miners represent the very best of West Virginia and this community is deeply ingrained in our state’s history.
I’ve been deeply inspired by our heroic first responders and divers doing everything possible to bring their colleague home to his loved ones. They demonstrated immense courage and resilience in the face of treacherous circumstances, and I thank them for their efforts,” Senator Capito said.
