CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training confirmed Wednesday the identity of the man who died at a Boone County property.
Officials said 28-year-old Zachary Grant Harris, of Foster Road, was accessing a manhole at a clarifying pond Tuesday afternoon, though the cause of his death remains unknown.
According to the office, Harris was a mobile equipment operator for Blackhawk Mining, who owns the property.
Gov. Jim Justice, U.S. Sens. Joe Manchin and Shelley Moore Capito, as well as Rep. Evan Jenkins issued statements Wednesdays sending their condolences.
“Cathy and I are heartbroken after learning about the death of one of our coal miners in Boone County. Please join us as we pray for the family and friends of Zachary Grant Harris. It’s tragic to lose someone so young. Our miners and coal community are very dedicated and always come together in difficult time like this,” Justice said.
“Our coal miners and their families make unthinkable sacrifices every day. Today, we are heartbroken at the loss of Zachary Grant Harris in Boone County,” Manchin said. “Gayle and I join all West Virginians in holding the Harris family in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”
“I am saddened and sorry to learn about Zachary’s death and extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and friends,” Capito said. “Coal mining is a proud West Virginia tradition, but it is not without risks, and creating a safe environment for our miners is critical.”
“West Virginians are saddened today by the loss of one of our own, Zachary Grant Harris, in Boone County. Coal mining is truly a brotherhood, and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and fellow miners,” Jenkins said. “We pray for peace and comfort for them during this very difficult time.”