North dies from injuries after mining accident
Published 3:11 pm Friday, May 31, 2019
A man who was injured during a mining accident last week in Harlan County has died. Laura K. McGinnis with the Office of Public Affairs, confirmed the death but could not provide further details while the investigation is still open.
According to various media outlets, Felix “Matt” North, 48, of Miracle, was the miner involved in the accident on May 22. Reports from the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet stated he began his shift at 2 p.m. that day and was operating a continuous miner and positioning the machine’s cable and water line when a wall unexpectedly fell and caused injuries to his lower body.
North was taken to Johnson County Medical Center, where he later died from his injuries.
WYMT reported this statement from Gov. Matt Bevin regarding North’s death, “We are heartbroken to learn of the passing of a Kentucky coal miner, Matt North, who was critically injured last week in an accident in Harlan County. Citizens across Kentucky stand united in support of Matt’s family, friends and the entire Southeast Kentucky community as they mourn this tragic loss.”
Reports state North had 12 years of experience as a mine operator.