UMWA Safety Experts Investigate Oak Grove Mine Tragedy After Loss of Miner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SEPTEMBER 25, 2024

[TRIANGLE, VA.] United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) International President Cecil E. Roberts issued the following statement today:

"The thoughts and prayers of every UMWA member are with the family of Jose Lara, who tragically lost his life in an incident last night at the Oak Grove Resources Mine in Bessemer, Alabama.

Brother Lara, a dedicated member of UMWA Local Union 2133, was 52 years old. He leaves behind a wife and three children, and our hearts go out to them during this incredibly challenging time.

UMWA safety experts are on-site to determine the cause of this heartbreaking incident. Operations at the mine and plant have been shut down after the incident and will remain suspended while the investigation continues.

This marks the ninth coal mine fatality of 2024, and the first in Alabama. We are deeply saddened by the loss of Brother Lara, and we are committed to uncovering the details of his death to help prevent future tragedies.