CARLISLE, WV (LOOTPRESS) – An old mine ventilation shaft has collapsed near a busy Fayette County road and the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WVDEP) is working to fill it.
A spokesperson for WVDEP confirmed to LOOTPRESS Saturday evening that on Tuesday, June 25, WVDEP received a complaint regarding an old ventilation shaft that was part of the New River Company Oakwood Mine in Carlisle that had appeared to be opening up.
The mine closed down in 1957.
WVDEP officials arrived on the scene the next day to confirm the reports and repair work began on Monday, July 1.
The ventilation shaft was sealed with a concrete cap previously. It is currently unclear as to what caused this specific collapse.
Sources tell LOOTPRESS that the hole is estimated to be 100-120 feet deep from the ground to the water, and approximately 400 feet deep to the very bottom to where the mine was.
Since Monday, contractors have been working to fill the hole from the bottom up with stone. It is estimated that it will take 5,500 tons to fill the hole.
The ventilation shaft is located off of State Route 612 between Mossy and Scarbro.
Currently, there are no road closures in place but the shoulder of State Route 612 near the ventilation shaft is closed.
WVDEP urges individuals to stay away from the hole as it is very dangerous. The area is being monitored.
Stick with LOOTPRESS for the latest on this story.
