FAIRMONT — The Mine Safety and Health Administration released a statement Tuesday regarding a vehicle accident at Consol Energy's Loveridge mine near Fairview on Monday resulting in the fatality of a dril rig worker:
A worker at a drill rig was reportedly killed when the drill rig overturned and crushed the victim. It has been reported that the drill rig was conducting exploratory work for marcellus shale deposits. The drill rig was drilling 30 ft deep holes and setting off shots for the purpose of seismic testing for potential marcellus drilling.
This activity was being conducted near the Loveridge mine.
MSHA District 3 personnel responded and are investigating for possible jurisdiction under the Mine Act.
The information gathered will be reviewed by MSHA personnel, in concert with the Office of the Solicitor for jurisdiction and possible chargeability.
OSHA has also responded and is working with MSHA to establish jurisdiction.
The accident was called into the 911 center at 5:55 p.m. Monday. The accident is under investigation by Deputy J. Williamson of the Marion County Sheriff's Department.
The Times West Virginian is currently waiting for responses and statements from Consol Energy and the Marion County Department of Homeland Security & Emergency Management.
