Gases in W.Va. mine where 29 died still too dangerous for investigators; might also be fire

Site of W.Va. mine disaster still unsafe to enter

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Toxic gases are still keeping investigators out of the West Virginia coal mine more than three weeks since 29 men died in an explosion.

Federal officials said Wednesday they also believe there is some kind of fire or other heat source within the Upper Big Branch mine. They cite signs of acetylene and ethylene.

Mine owner Massey Energy has already pumped 7 million cubic feet of nitrogen into the underground mine to suffocate any fire.

The U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration says gas levels have been dropping, but they’re still too unsafe for anyone to enter. Agency officials are instead reviewing mine records and preparing to interview witnesses.

Investigators are searching for a cause behind the April 5 blast, the nation’s worst coal mine disaster in 40 years.