MORGANTOWN, W.Va. (AP) -- Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin wants West
Virginians to observe a moment of silence, starting at 3:01 p.m.
Thursday to mark the second anniversary of the Upper Big Branch
mine disaster and the deaths of 29 men.
Methane and coal dust fueled the blast at the former Massey
Energy mine on April 5, 2010.
The worst U.S. mine disaster in four decades has since led to a
$210 million settlement between the Department of Justice and the
mine's new owner, Virginia-based Alpha Natural Resources.
Two employees have pleaded guilty to or been convicted of
federal charges, and a criminal probe continues.
Wreath-laying ceremonies are scheduled Thursday outside the
state Capitol in Charleston and at the Raleigh County Courthouse.
Meanwhile, the mine's new owner has announced it will
permanently seal the mine.
Virginians to observe a moment of silence, starting at 3:01 p.m.
Thursday to mark the second anniversary of the Upper Big Branch
mine disaster and the deaths of 29 men.
Methane and coal dust fueled the blast at the former Massey
Energy mine on April 5, 2010.
The worst U.S. mine disaster in four decades has since led to a
$210 million settlement between the Department of Justice and the
mine's new owner, Virginia-based Alpha Natural Resources.
Two employees have pleaded guilty to or been convicted of
federal charges, and a criminal probe continues.
Wreath-laying ceremonies are scheduled Thursday outside the
state Capitol in Charleston and at the Raleigh County Courthouse.
Meanwhile, the mine's new owner has announced it will
permanently seal the mine.
