Second Worker Dies After Kentucky Coal Plant Collapse, Investigation Underway

Victims Billy Ray Daniels and Alvin Nees were preparing the abandoned coal processing facility for demolition when the incident occurred; second victim's body still not recovered, rescue operations transform into recovery as investigation unfolds.

Workers Billy Ray Daniels and Alvin Nees were trapped following the collapse of the Martin County coal plant in Kentucky. Daniels was confirmed dead during initial rescue efforts.
Nees, initially believed to be still under the rubble, has been confirmed dead, making this the second fatality of the tragic incident.
Authorities state that this might be the largest structural collapse in Kentucky's history, with emergency personnel stating the situation on the ground was 'certainly grim'.
Both victims were contracted to perform demolition work on the 11-story building, which had been previously abandoned.
Search and recovery efforts have been described as 'challenging' due to the potential presence of toxic particulates amid unstable rubble.
Several state agencies, including the Kentucky Division of Occupational Safety and Health Compliance, have launched investigations into the causes of the collapse. Inspections had been previously opened with Lexington Coal Company LLC, contracted for the demolition work. The inquiry could last up to six months.