Horrible Mine Disaster in West Virginia

I know that most of you have already seen the coverage, but I just wanted to take a minute to send thoughts and prayers and condolences towards the families of the miners in West Virginia.  It is the worst mining disaster in the US in 26 years, and as it stands right now, there are 25 confirmed dead and 4 still missing.

The explosion took place during a shift change, and was likely due to a buildup of methane.  From reports that are coming out, it sounds like there was a long history of violations with this company at this mine, with 57 last month alone.  At least one of those violations was over not properly ventilating the methane gas.

Here are some additional links to coverage of the story…

West Virginia Coal Mine Explosion: 25 Dead After Massey Blast

West Virginia Coal Mine Explosion: 25 Dead After Massey Blast

West Virginia Mine EXPLOSION: Massey Energy Mine Had Scores Of Safety Citations

West Virginia Mine Disaster: Help Support Victims’ Families

Fatal U.S. Mine Disasters: A List Of Tragic Deaths In Recent Decades