Inspectors Re-Enter Massey’s Upper Big Branch Mine

After toxic gasses initially turned them away, two teams of inspectors have re-entered the Upper Big Branch mine this afternoon to begin their investigation into what caused a horrific blast that took 29 lives in April, according to Massey Energy, which owns the UBB.

Two teams entered the mine this morning at approximately 10 a.m. The teams were withdrawn after air quality samples indicated the presence of adverse air conditions. These samples were analyzed further and it was determined that the teams could safely reenter the mine again. The teams are continuing their examination of mine conditions at this time.

Massey this afternoon also reiterated its call for the investigation to be public — a call that the Obama administration has so far rejected.