The first mine death in the nation happens right here in Eastern Kentucky.

An accident at a surface coal mine leaves a truck driver dead. This comes after Kentucky had its safest year ever in 2007.

It happened at the Blue Ridge Mine in Letcher County operated by Cumberland River Coal Company.

Just after midnight, officials say 29 year old Roy D. Sturgill backed up too far to unload his dump truck at an Eastern Kentucky surface mine.

Mine officials are unsure if a high wall was present that could have prevented Sturgill from backing over the cliff. They believe Sturgill was thrown from his truck during the fall and the investigation into the accident continues.

Officials say the portion of the mine where the accident occurred will remain closed until the on-site investigation is finished.

Kentucky Department of Natural Resources Commissioner Susan Bush says inspectors cited the Letcher County mine for 24 safety violations last year and issued 19 orders banning the use of specific pieces of equipment, mainly vehicles.

Sturgill worked for the Bates Construction Company and was employed at the 1,800 acre Blue Ridge Surface Mine for about a month.

Community members say he is survived by his wife and two children.