Alpha Metallurgical Resources confirmed that a section foreman at its Rolling Thunder mine in Nicholas County, W.Va., lost his life following a flooding incident that occurred on November 8.
During routine operations, a crew in the underground mine encountered a sudden and substantial inflow of water. Tragically, Steven Lipscomb of Elkview, W.Va., was unable to reach safety. He was last seen attempting to ensure his crew made it out safely. All other miners in the area were able to safely evacuate the mine.
“Our hearts are broken,” said Andy Eidson, Alpha Metallurgical Resources CEO. “Steve joined our company in 2006 and was a dedicated employee, respected leader and friend to many. His actions to ensure the safety of his crew members were heroic. On behalf of the entire organization, we extend our prayers and deepest sympathies to his wife, two children and all who knew and cared for him.”
Immediately upon learning of the incident, Alpha officials responded, mobilizing all available resources and leading around-the-clock rescue efforts, which were supported by numerous local, state and federal agency officials as well as emergency response dive teams.
“We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the mine rescue teams, agency officials, and all who worked tirelessly under extreme conditions throughout the multi-day rescue and recovery effort,” Eidson continued. “We are deeply saddened by the outcome, but thankful for the courage, professionalism and perseverance of these responders.”
The company is working closely with federal and state authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the accident and its underlying causes.
Source: Alpha Metallurgical Resources
Steven Matthew Lipscomb Obituary
Steven Matthew Lipscomb, 42, of Elkview, West Virginia, departed this life on November 13, 2025. He left this world the way he lived his life, putting others first.
He began his underground mining career in 2006 with Massey Energy (Alpha Natural Resources) where he worked alongside his brother, Joseph, for several years. Steve built a distinguished career and earned the deep respect of his fellow miners, working his way up to become a foreman in 2015 and an EMTM in 2016, a specialized training that allowed him to provide emergency medical care within the high-risk environment of underground mining. In these roles, he put his life on the line multiple times in heroic efforts to help save the lives of others.