When one MRS was released from the mine roof, a portion of the roof collapsed pinning both miners who were approximately 15 feet outby the MRS.

The victims were James Thomas, 48, and Pete Poindexter, 33.

MSHA issued the following best practices:

Know and follow the approved pillaring procedures in the roof control plan.

Conduct a thorough visual examination of the roof, face, and ribs immediately before any work is performed and thereafter as conditions warrant.

Always be alert for geological changes so that slip planes, kettle bottoms, horsebacks or slicken-sided conditions are detected.

Take additional actions and precautions when cracks or other roof abnormalities are detected.