West Virginia Cites Massey Subsidiary After Fatal Bulldozer Accident

A Massey Energy subsidiary has been cited by West Virginia for a safety violation that state investigators say contributed to the death of a bulldozer operator last fall.

A state Office of Miners’ Health, Safety and Training report says Massey’s Alex Energy allowed 61-year-old James Woods to operate the dozer on a steep slope without adequate protection.

A Massey spokesman did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Investigators also cited the earthmoving contractor for non-contributing violations.

The bulldozer rolled, breaking Woods’ spine. The accident at Alex Energy’s No. 1 surface mine in Nicholas County occurred Sept. 19; Woods died Oct. 4.

Richmond, Va.-based Massey operates mines in West Virginia, Virginia and Kentucky.