UPDATE 4:15pm May 6th, 2014 - CEO of First Nickel Inc., Tom Boehlert has confirmed the identities of the two deceased workers involved in an accident at their Lockerby Mine. Deceased are Marc Methe, 34 and Norm Bissaillon, 49 both of Taurus Drilling
An official statement by Boehlert reads:
"We regret to report than an accident has occurred in the underground operations at the Lockerby Mine here in Sudbury that has claimed the lives of two drillers, both working for Taurus Drilling Services. Taurus has been active with our company for several years."
"These two men were Marc Methe and Norm Bissaillon, age 34 and 49 respectively. Norm was a dedicated and experienced underground miner with over 20 years of experience...a good man and a family man who loved to talk about his children of who he was so proud. Marc had been with Taurus for about four years and was committed and enthusiastic about the trade. He was always positive and meticulous about everything he did. These individuals will be sorely missed by all of us at First Nickel and Taurus."
"The event, a fall of material, was preceded by seismic activity which is believed to have been a factor in the accident. Rescue team were immediately dispatched and worked tirelessly to reach the men. All underground activities, except emergency requirements, were immediately suspended and authorities were notified."
"The coroner arrived on site and pronounced both men deceased."
"Senior operations management are working with government authorities to thoroughly investigate the accident."
"The company is also working closely with Taurus Drilling to ensure that the miners' families receive counseling support. Counseling has also been and will continue to be provided for all employees and workers on site."
"We are profoundly saddened by this tragic accident that resulted in the deaths of two men and we extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends and colleagues. Safety is the top priority for the company, and we take it very seriously. We are committed to a full and thorough investigation."
Update 2:00pm May 6th, 2014: First Nickel Inc has confirmed that is was two Taurus Drilling workers killed this morning. Two workers are died at FNI Lockerby Mine after what is being described as a fall of ground, preceded by seismic activity
Update 11:00am May 6th, 2014 - Ministry of Labour has confirmed two contractors have died.
There are two contracting companies at FNI Lockerby Mine; Taurus Drilling and Red Path. It's not know which company employed the workers involved.
It's been reported that the accident involved a ground collapse.
ORIGINAL STORY: Mine rescue has reported an accident occurred at FNI Lockerby Mine this Morning.
Operations are underway to locate and assess the condition of two contractors. All other workers have reported in safely.
All operations, except rescue operations were suspended upon knowledge of the incident.
No other details available at this time. We will this story as information becomes available