Before I start, I realize this is somewhat of a repeat, but thought this deserved special attention because of the major mix up. I'm sure everyone
has seen all the headlines this morning claming 12 of the 13 miners were found alive. Turns out it was just a rumor and 12 of the 13 were actually
found dead. The sole survivor was in critical condition but showing signs of brain functioning, a doctor said.
news.yahoo.com
The devastating new information about the others shocked and angered family members, who had rejoiced with Gov. Joe Manchin hours earlier when a
rumor began to spread that 12 miners were alive. Rescue crews found the first victim earlier Tuesday evening.
"I can only say there was no one who did anything intentionally other than risk their lives to save their loved ones," Manchin told ABC's "Good
Morning America."
The survivor, identified by mining officials as 27-year-old Randal McCloy, was unconscious but moaning when he arrived at a hospital, the hospital
said.
Please visit the link provided for the complete story.
I really feel for these families. I cannot imagine the extremes these families went though. From worrying and hoping, to the most extreme joy and
relief that they have ever experienced, then finally a feeling of tragedy and sadness. I guess the good news is that atleast one survived.
I can't think of many worse ways to depart this world. Being caught in a cave-in is just a nightmarish scenario for me personally. Haven't we
reached the point where we could have machines do this kind of work?
I just read on CNN.COM that the miners apparently built a barricade before they perished. Is that normal procedure? If not, what were they barricading
against?
Yes Macuser, from what I've read, and talking to a friend online who's cousin works in that industry, that is apparently their protocol in the
event of disasters like this. Build a barricade and wait to be rescued. I think the logic is kinda that if that try to dig out they could worsen the
situation being that they are so far underground.