An unfortunate incident took place on Thursday where Chris Cline, who was the West Virginia coal billionaire and philanthropist died in a helicopter crash near the Bahamas, the governor said. West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice through a tweet announced this sad news, “Today we lost a WV superstar and I lost a very close friend,”
He added, ” … Chris Cline built an empire and on every occasion was always there to give. What a wonderful, loving and giving man.”
Chris Cline, who was an American billionaire mining entrepreneur, businessman, and philanthropist died just a day before when he was about to celebrate his 61st birthday (at the age of 60).
There were also various other people who were aboard the helicopter when it crashed, which also includes Cline’s daughter, as per to the Brenton Southern Baptist Church, which said that they have confirmed it with family members.
The church in one of their statement said, Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. We will post more as it develops.” Cline was one of the charter members when the church was started.
Well, as per to the initial reports, there was no immediate details on the fate of others aboard the helicopter.
Evan Jenkins, a justice at the West Virginia Supreme Court, said in a statement that the state has lost a philanthropist who donated to various different programs.
He said, “His selfless and generous support for programs and projects throughout the state improved the lives of countless West Virginians,” he added further, “His life’s story was one of hard work, love of family and caring support for others. My deepest condolences go out to his family.
Talking about Chris Cline, he came from a family of coal miners and was born on July 5, 1958.
Cline’s father as well as grandfather worked at mines because of which he also started working in the year 1980 as an underground miner in West Virginia at age of 22 years old. A decade later, he then founded his energy development company, the Cline Group.
His company Foresight Energy says on its website that his brilliant experience, active approach to the direction of mine development as well the power and strength of his team assisted him to capitalize on several chances and opportunities that others missed.
It also said, “The Cline Group was soon recognized across the industry as a reliable coal supplier, an excellent lessee, and a desired employer committed to the health and safety of its miners — characteristics that continue to drive its success today”
Brian Glasser, an attorney who represented Cline said, “He was a young man. He was audacious. He was a great man, and he will be missed.”
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