In depth with good quotes, descriptions and background informaiton. The reporters let Mr. Blankenship have his say, but don't leave his statements unquestioned. Tthe NYT has invested its resources, sending 3 reporters to Montcoal--Ian Urbina, with Bernie Becker and Dan Heyman also contributing to this report. In NYC, Cooper has been joined by 4 additional reporters. The writers have picked out key quotes from officials. In at least one case, though, it's from a news conference and they doesn't note the context ( as did Ken Ward, Jr. on his blog) As a result, I can't be sure about other quotes and paraphrases. They do cite a former employee and a current employee (who is anonymous due to fear of retribution) which adds ... More »

Opens a pandoras' box on a very major offender of mine saftey setting a standard for future reports on this horrific accident that may not have been accidential.

This NYT story is dominated by talking heads and official statements, but includes a few contrary opinions. Blankenship's union-busting, climate change denial backing, extreme wealth, and Republican contributions get no mention. This mass murder is Massey murder.

This article zeros in on a wide variety of issues relative to the explosion at this mine and its owner, Massey Energy. That the reporters were able to do this so soon after the disaster with a fair amount of accuracy speaks to their hussle and to a good use of helpl from colleagues mentioned at the end of the article.