Two workers have tragically lost their lives after a building collapsed at the Excel/Pontiki Coal Preparation Plant in Martin County, Kentucky. The incident occurred earlier this week, and authorities have been working tirelessly to rescue the trapped men. However, their efforts were in vain as both workers succumbed to their injuries.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear delivered the heartbreaking news on Friday afternoon, confirming the deaths of the two workers. The men were identified as Billy Ray Daniels and Alvin Nees. They were inside the Martin Mine Prep Plant when it suddenly crumbled, burying them under layers of concrete and steel.
Rescue operations began on Tuesday evening, shortly after the collapse. Despite intensive efforts throughout the week, only one of the workers, Daniels, was initially found. Tragically, he passed away on Wednesday. The search continued for Nees, but he was also discovered to have lost his life.
Governor Beshear expressed his sadness over the situation and asked the community to join him and his wife in sending prayers to the families affected. The news was shared on social media, with the Governor urging everyone to stand together during this difficult time.
During a news conference on Friday, Martin County Judge Executive Dr. Lon Lafferty confirmed that both bodies had been located. Despite the grim and difficult circumstances, efforts are ongoing to recover Daniels’ body.
The cause of the building’s collapse is currently under investigation, and authorities are working to determine what led to the tragic incident. Martin County, located near West Virginia and approximately 150 miles southeast of Lexington, is now mourning the loss of these two workers.