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UPDATE 11-13-25

Governor Confirms Death of Missing Miner at Rolling Thunder Mine

NICHOLAS COUNTY, W.Va. — A tragic ending to the search at the Rolling Thunder Mine in Nicholas County, as officials confirm the death of foreman Steve Lipscomb, the miner who went missing earlier this week.

Governor Patrick Morrisey announced the news Wednesday morning, expressing heartbreak over the loss.

According to officials, rescue crews were finally able to enter the mine shortly after 6 a.m., once floodwaters had receded to a safe level. Teams carefully searched each section underground, and at 7:37 a.m., a two-man crew located Lipscomb’s body.

Crews had been working tirelessly around the clock — some stationed underground, others on the surface managing equipment and supplies, and additional workers installing a new waterline to speed up the draining process.

Governor Morrisey and First Lady Denise Morrisey extended their condolences to the Lipscomb family, praising the dedication and bravery of the rescue teams.

“Mining is more than an industry here — it’s a brotherhood, a way of life, and a source of pride,” Morrisey said. “When tragedy strikes, we grieve together, we stand together, and we support one another as one West Virginia family.”