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Man Dies After Collapsing in Abandoned Breathitt County Mine
Table of Contents
- 1. Man Dies After Collapsing in Abandoned Breathitt County Mine
- 2. Frequently Asked Questions about Mine Safety
- 3. What safety concerns are associated with unsecured abandoned mines like the Red Hawk Mine?
- 4. Man Found Dead Near Abandoned Mine in Salyersville
- 5. Initial Reports & Discovery
- 6. Location & Mine History: The Old Red Hawk Mine
- 7. Preliminary Investigation Findings
- 8. Safety Concerns Regarding Abandoned Mines in Kentucky
- 9. Local Response & Community Impact
- 10. Resources for Mine Safety Data
- 11. Ongoing Investigation & Updates
Archyde Staff
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A man from Magoffin County has died after collapsing inside an abandoned mine in Breathitt County. The incident occurred last Thursday.
The Breathitt County coroner’s office responded to a call at Old Mine Number Two on Mine Shaft Road.The department was dispatched around 10 p.m. on July 17.
Officials stated that John Mullins, 45, of Magoffin County, and his cousin were reportedly searching for ginseng and yellowroot near the mine.both individuals entered the mine.
According to Mullins’ cousin,Mullins ventured deeper into the mine. After approximately five to ten minutes, his cousin called out for him. Mullins then began to exit the mine.
Tragically, Mullins reportedly collapsed as he was attempting to reach the mine’s entrance. He was pronounced deceased at the scene shortly before 11 p.m.
Mullins’ body was transported to the state medical examiner’s office in Frankfort. A cause of death has not yet been released.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mine Safety
- What are the risks associated with exploring abandoned mines?
- Abandoned mines present numerous dangers, including unstable structures, hazardous air quality, potential for cave-ins, and unseen shafts or pits.
- Is it legal to enter abandoned mines?
- Entry into abandoned mines is often prohibited due to safety concerns and can be considered trespassing on private or government property.
- What safety precautions should be taken when foraging in remote areas?
- When foraging, it’s crucial to inform someone of your location and expected return time, carry a fully charged phone, and be aware of your surroundings, especially hazardous terrain.
- What is the role of a coroner?
- A coroner is responsible for investigating deaths, determining the cause and manner of death, and coordinating with the medical examiner when necessary.
- What is a state medical examiner’s office?
- The state medical examiner’s office performs autopsies and scientific investigations to determine the cause and manner of death in cases of unexplained, sudden, or violent fatalities.
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What safety concerns are associated with unsecured abandoned mines like the Red Hawk Mine?
Man Found Dead Near Abandoned Mine in Salyersville
Initial Reports & Discovery
On July 28, 2025, at approximately 8:00 AM EDT, authorities responded to a report of a deceased male discovered near the entrance of an abandoned coal mine in salyersville, Magoffin County, Kentucky. The initial call came from a local resident walking a nearby trail. Magoffin County Sheriff's Department deputies were first on the scene,quickly securing the area and initiating a preliminary inquiry. The victim has been tentatively identified as 42-year-old Dale Harding, a resident of nearby Salyersville. Positive identification is pending official confirmation from the Kentucky State Medical Examiner's Office.
Location & Mine History: The Old Red Hawk Mine
The location of the discovery is near the former Red Hawk Mine,a coal mining operation that ceased activity in the late 1980s. the Red Hawk Mine, like many in Eastern Kentucky, was a significant employer in its time, but faced economic challenges and eventual closure due to declining coal demand and safety concerns.
Mine Ownership: Historical records indicate the mine was originally owned by Red Hawk Coal Company, later acquired by a series of smaller operators.
Closure reasons: The primary reasons for closure included depleted coal seams, increasing operational costs, and stricter safety regulations.
Current Status: The mine entrance is currently unsecured,presenting a potential hazard. Local authorities have repeatedly called for funding to properly seal abandoned mine shafts in the region.
Preliminary Investigation Findings
The Magoffin county Sheriff's Department, with assistance from the Kentucky State Police, is conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mr.Harding's death.
Cause of Death: As of this writing, the cause of death remains undetermined. Investigators are awaiting the results of an autopsy to be performed by the Kentucky state Medical Examiner.
Evidence at the scene: Deputies reported finding no immediate signs of foul play, but a detailed forensic examination of the scene is underway. Evidence collected includes personal belongings of the deceased and samples from the surrounding area.
Witness Statements: Authorities are interviewing individuals who may have had contact with Mr. Harding prior to his death.
Safety Concerns Regarding Abandoned Mines in Kentucky
The incident highlights the ongoing dangers posed by abandoned coal mines throughout Eastern Kentucky. Thes sites frequently enough present significant safety hazards, including:
unstable Ground: Collapsed tunnels and unstable ground conditions can lead to cave-ins and injuries.
Hazardous Gases: Abandoned mines can accumulate hazardous gases, such as methane and carbon monoxide.
Hidden shafts: Unmarked or poorly marked mine shafts pose a risk of accidental falls.
Water Contamination: Acid mine drainage can contaminate local water sources.
Local Response & Community Impact
The news of Mr. Harding's death has deeply affected the Salyersville community.He was known as a local handyman and frequently enough volunteered his time for community projects.
Community Grief: Residents have expressed shock and sadness over the loss.
Calls for Mine Reclamation: The incident has renewed calls for increased funding for mine reclamation projects in Magoffin county and throughout Eastern Kentucky. Several local organizations are advocating for stricter regulations regarding abandoned mine safety.
Support for the Family: A local fundraising effort has been initiated to support Mr. Harding's family.
Resources for Mine Safety Data
Several organizations provide information and resources related to mine safety and reclamation:
Kentucky Energy and Surroundings Cabinet: https://eec.ky.gov/
Office of Mine Safety and Reclamation (OMSR): https://eec.ky.gov/natural-resources/mining/Pages/OMSR.aspx
Appalachian Citizens' Law Center: https://aclc.org/ (Provides legal assistance related to mining issues)
Ongoing Investigation & Updates
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information related to this case to contact the Magoffin County Sheriff's Department at (606) 874-4111. Archyde.com will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Keywords: Salyersville, Kentucky, abandoned mine, death investigation, magoffin County, Red Hawk Mine, mine safety, coal mine, Kentucky State Police, cause of death, mine reclamation, acid mine drainage. Related searches: Kentucky mine accidents, abandoned coal mines Kentucky, Salyersville news, Magoffin County Sheriff.