Governor Patrick Morrisey issued a statement on Apr. 3 following the death of Darin Reece in an accident at the Ohio County Mine in Marshall County.
The loss comes as a significant event for West Virginia’s mining community, marking the second fatality within a day. The incident has prompted condolences and attention from state leadership.
“Denise and I were deeply saddened to learn of the loss of Darin Reece, who passed away following an accident at the Ohio County Mine. We extend our condolences to his family, his fellow miners, and all those who knew him. He served as a Continuous Miner Section Supervisor and was part of a workforce that takes on difficult and dangerous work every day,” Morrisey said.
Morrisey also addressed the broader effects such tragedies have beyond individual workplaces. “The impact of these events reaches far beyond the job site. It is felt by families, coworkers, and entire communities. That weight is even greater today, as this marks the second loss of life in West Virginia’s mining community in less than 24 hours,” he said.
He confirmed that “the West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety, and Training is on site and conducting a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding this incident.”
U.S. Sen. Jim Justice (R-W.Va.) serves on several committees focused on community development and economic growth; he has emphasized job creation during his career according to his official website. Justice has also been involved with youth programs through his office according to the official website, served previously as governor focusing on economic initiatives according to the official website, was elected U.S. senator from West Virginia according to the official website, obtained degrees from Marshall University according to the official website, drew upon lifelong state experience in public service according to the official website, captained Marshall University’s golf team according to the official website, revitalized The Greenbrier Resort through investments, oversees Justice Family Farms promoting employment and agriculture excellence according to the official website.
As investigations continue into recent mining incidents, state officials highlight ongoing efforts aimed at improving workplace safety across industries.
