U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall, D-W.Va., expressed his condolences to the Sago Mine community Wednesday, following news that 12 of 13 miners there had not survived Monday's explosion at the Upshur County mine.

"My heart and my prayers are with the families and loved ones of those who were trapped in the Sago Mine in Upshur County, West Virginia," Rahall said. "The heart of West Virginia broke with the news of the tragic loss of these 12 brave miners. Yet we are grateful that one man miraculously survived."

"In the coming hours and days, West Virginians will continue to pray for the recovery of that one soul while asking our Creator to shepherd those we lost and comfort those they left behind," Rahall said.

Rahall commended the men and women who worked in the recovery operation and the way all West Virginians responded to the disaster and called for a prompt investigation into the accident.

"This tragic event must be investigated by the appropriate officials," Rahall said. "If there could be one shining example in this terrible tragedy, let it be the proud display of compassion and support the citizens of our coalfields have demonstrated in these difficult times."

"May this day strengthen America's resolve to ensure the safety and well-being of our miners who toil everyday to keep our Nation strong."