Miner killed at Knight Hawk coal mine

The Perry County Coroner's Office was called to Prairie Eagle Mine, 7290 County Line Road, Cutler, where an underground mining accident had occurred at approximately 8:30 p.m. Timothy K. Chamness, 28, Royalton, was pronounced dead at 9:08 p.m. on Feb. 13 at the scene by Coroner Paul Searby.

The accident is under investigation by the Perry County Coroner's Office and MSHA. An autopsy is scheduled for Thursday.

Knight Hawk issued the following statement Thursday morning:

"On Feb. 13 there was a fatal accident involving an employee at our Prairie Eagle South Underground Mine. We grieve the loss of one our own and extend our deepest sympathies to his family. At this time, an investigation is being conducted by the Mine Safety and Health Administration and the Illinois Department of Mines and Minerals and we are prohibited from making further comments. The safety of our employees is paramount and this accident affects all of us profoundly."