Man dies after reported mining accident in Perry County

FRANKFORT, Ky. – A 25-year-old male is dead after a reported mining accident at the Combs Branch Mine, near Chavies, Perry County on Wednesday.

According to a release by the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Preston Pollard of Perry County, a certified surface miner, was performing maintenance work on equipment at the time of the accident around 10:10 a.m.

“I hope all of Kentucky will join Britainy and me as we pray for Preston’s family during this difficult time,” Gov. Andy Beshear said. “This accident is a tough reminder of the dangers our miners, both surface and underground, face every day.”

All mining operations were shut down after the accident and will continue to be suspended while an investigation continues.

The Kentucky Department for Natural Resources, Division of Mine Safety, sent investigators to the mine Wednesday morning, officials say.