News conference planned by mine officials

HUNTINGTON — Federal officials and mine owners plan to hold a news conference tonight to talk about the latest developments in the search for six miners trapped inside the Crandall Canyon Mine.

Authorities have revealed no details, but a camera was to be lowered today inside the latest hole to be drilled through a mountain to the miners, who are believed to be nearly 1,900 feet underground inside a collapsed cavern.

A new 8 5/8-inch hole punched through, into the mine, earlier today, but no contact was made with Kerry Allred, Luis Hernandez, Carlos Payan, Don Erickson, Manuel Sanchez and Brandon Phillips.

Late this afternoon, mine owner Bob Murray left the area headed toward Canyon View Junior High School, where family members have been gathering, anxiously waiting for updates of the rescue effort.

After meeting with family members, Murray and officials with the federal Mine Safety and Health Administration are expected to speak to reporters.