One charged, one still missing, after Boone County mine break-in

MADISON, W.Va. — Formal charges have been filed against one of two men accused of going into a closed Boone County coal mine in late November.

Gary Gibson, 37, of Oceana, was charged with breaking and entering as well as conspiracy.

Authorities drove to the Wells Complex Mine in Boone County about a possible crime on progress. A woman near a breach in the sealed entrance said she was waiting to pick up Gibson and Wes Blackburn, who allegedly entered the mine to steal copper. Deputies took Gibson into custody when he emerged from the mine. Blackburn, 38, of Oceana, has not been located.

A rescue team entered the mine on Nov. 29 to look for Blackburn, and said they were uncertain as to whether he was inside. Officials added the rescue team would not re-enter the mine because of a roof collapse.

Blackburn’s family members held a protest Monday in front of the Boone County Courthouse, demanding that authorities resume the search.

Gibson is being held at the Southwestern Regional Jail on a $30,000 bond.





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