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Beshear declared a state of emergency in Martin County to mobilize state resources.

Multiple agencies responded to the scene to assist in the rescue efforts, including the National Guard’s Special Tactics Squadron K-9 search dog unit.

Upward of 50 rescuers are on the scene, officials said Thursday.

\"It's horrific,\" Lafferty said of the scene. \"Very large structure that was collapsed in on itself.\"

\"Tremendous amount of weight, tremendous amount of force, tremendous pile of rubble there now,\" he continued.

\"PHOTO:
Leah Willingham/AP
PHOTO: Martin County Judge Executive Lon Lafferty addresses reporters outside a road leading to the abandoned Martin Mine Prep Plant in Inez, K.Y. , on Nov. 1, 2023, where the collapse of an 11-story coal tipple killed at least one man.
>

The two workers were helping demolish the building at the abandoned mine site on Wolf Creek, according to Lafferty. A crew was working on the ground at the time of the collapse, he said.

Lafferty was unable to confirm who employed the two workers.

Lafferty said in a social media post early Wednesday that he declared a local state of emergency in Martin County to help access additional rescue resources.

State Sen. Phillip Wheeler, whose district includes Martin County, said he is \"deeply saddened\" by news of the deadly collapse.

\"This incident is a stark reminder of the inherent risks in any job and the unexpected nature of tragedy,\" he said in a statement. \"We are prepared to assist those affected by loss or injury and their families and the local government in any way we can.\"

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