Kentucky officials have identified the man who died in a mining accident in Bell County, Kentucky, on Monday.
The Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet said 56-year-old Jeffery Norman Slone of Clinton, Tenn. died after he was struck by a shuttle car in the Tennco Energy Inc., Toms Fork mine.
Officials said Slone started his shift around 5 a.m. working as a surveyor when he was struck around 11:20 a.m.
He was taken to the Pineville Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
“Our hearts are broken for all those affected by today’s fatal accident at the Toms Fork Mine in Bell County,” said Kentucky Gov. Matt Bevin. “We invite citizens of the Commonwealth and beyond to join us in praying for this miner‘s family, friends, co-workers and the entire Southeastern Kentucky community during this very difficult time."
Slone was a part-time Pastor of Evangelism at 2nd Baptist Church in Clinton. A pastor at the church held a remembrance for him Monday night at 7:30.
More than 100 people showed up to say their goodbyes. The pastor of the church was a good friend of Jeff Slone.
"Jeff worked in the coal mines and did that to make his way of living and also worked in the church," Pastor Michael Thompson said.
During the remembrance, members relived memories they shared with Slone.
"Jeff was a man that made a tremendous impact here on us at the church as well," Thompson said. "He always had a smile on his face. He just cared about folks and our people are just devastated about this."
Authorities said the mine was licensed by the Division of Mine Safety on Nov. 16, 2018. There have been two inspections since the mine opened that resulted in one closure for roof control, which was fixed the following day.
Officials said the accident happened approximately 600 feet underground.
“My deepest sympathies go out to the Slone family,” Kentucky Energy and Environment Secretary Charles G. Snavely said. “We will learn more about how this accident happened and what can be done to prevent another such loss of life.”
Investigators were sent to the mine and all operations were shut down Monday, where they will be suspended as the investigation continues.