Mining accident takes life of Hopkins County miner

First mining fatality in Kentucky in 2016

Frankfort, Ky. – A mining accident has taken the life of a Hopkins County miner.

Kentucky Office of Mine Safety officials say 36-year-old Nathan G. Phillips was operating a continuous miner when he became pinned between the machinery and the rib wall of the mine. He was transported to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead.

The accident occurred Tuesday at approximately 4 p.m. CT at the Webster County CoalDotiki Mine, owned by Alliance Energy, in Webster County. State mine inspectors and investigators will be at the mine today interviewing witnesses to make a determination into the cause of the accident.

“I am greatly saddened to hear of the loss of this young man’s life,” said Energy and Environment Cabinet Secretary Charles Snavely. “The safety of all of our Kentucky miners is our top priority and even one accident or fatality is one too many. I want to extend my sincere sympathy to Mr. Phillips’ family during this tragic time.”

This is the first mining fatality in Kentucky in 2016.