December 09, 2020

Manchin Statement On The Death Of John Gillenwater At Chemical Plant Explosion In Belle

Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV) today released the following statement on the death of John Gillenwater at the Optima Chemical facility explosion last night in Belle.

“Gayle and I send our thoughts and prayers to John Gillenwater’s family, friends, and loved ones, especially his wife Tina and their children. It is heartbreaking to lose a fellow West Virginian, especially so close to the holidays. This is tragic loss for the community and all of West Virginia. Gayle and I, like all West Virginians, will keep John’s loved ones in our prayers and will continue to pray for the speedy recovery of the three others injured in last night’s explosion.”