Last night when Times newspapers were printed, hope and jubilation about 12 trapped West Virginia miners found alive was relayed as the story of the moment; one miner was reportedly found dead as well. Those papers were printed and distributed all over our community.
Despite direct quotes from West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin supporting the hoped-for news of the rescues, we know this report was about as wrong as any could be. Many were misled.
In reality, 12 miners were found dead. The sole survivor is hospitalized in critical condition, but responsive.
It appears the anxiety and stress of those close to the day-long rescue operations mistook scant information to mean 12 miners were alive. Cell phones and other communication flurries rapidly spread the late-breaking news. Newspapers from Lexington, Ky., to Columbia, S.C., all responded like we did with headlines declaring miners were found alive. Many late-night newscasts aired similar reports.
The tragedy of these inaccurate reports only makes a true tragedy worse. Today, communities across the country stare at a wishful headline, now knowing it is a nightmare.
I wish I could call back all of the editions with the mistaken headline, a grim reminder of just how short-lived some joy can be. The timing of the news and the events are unfortunate, and we are sorry for any excessive pain our print editions might add. Please know we mourn for the lives of people willing to do dangerous and important work to support both their families and this great nation. Our prayers go out to them.
