Kentucky Mine Where Two Killed Had Highwall Citation in April

The Kentucky surface coal mine where two workers were killed by falling rock was cited earlier this year over the stability of a highwall.

U.S. Mine Health and Safety Administration records show the agency cited operator Armstrong Coal in April. The citation was first reported by the Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer.

The citation for the Equality Mine at Centertown refers to regulations that require removal of loose hazardous material from the top of highwalls. Records show Armstrong has contested the citation.

Investigators said Darrel Winstead and Samuel Lindsey were killed Friday when a pile of rock crushed their vehicle as they drove near a highwall.

Armstrong released a statement Saturday saying it has a strong safety record. A company spokesman didn’t immediately respond to an email seeking comment on the citation.