The operator of a coal-mining truck was transported via helicopter to a hospital today (Tuesday, February 17, 2015) after the truck he was on overturned in Mahanoy Township, southeast of Shenandoah.
Emergency personnel were called around 11:35 AM to coal mine property in the area of Patriotic Hill Road in Mahanoy Township, near the village of Maple Hill.
An official on scene said the operator was able to self-extricate himself from the vehicle (a Caterpillar 785b) prior to arrival of emergency services. A helicopter was called after he complained of back pain. Medivac 5 landed at the Shenandoah helipad on East Washington Street for transport to Geisinger Hospital in Danville.
Authorities identified the operator as John Lutsky, 29, of Pottsville. They added that injuries didn’t appear life-threatening.

According to the Republican Herald story, the crash occurred on Schuylkill Energy Resources property.
Responding were firefighters and rescuers from West End Fire Company in Mahanoy City, Mahanoy City EMS, Shenandoah EMS, Mahanoy Township Police and others. 

All photos Special to TamaquaArea.com.