Intelligence Note

Prepared by the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)

January 11, 2006

Attention — E-mail Solicitation of Funds For a Miner Hurt in a West Virginia Mine Disaster

On January 3, 2006, an explosion occurred in the Sago Coal Mine, located in West Virginia, trapping 13 miners. Randal McCloy, Jr. is the only survivor of the disaster. The FBI has become aware of a spam email soliciting funds for the medical care of Randal McCloy, Jr. The email purports to be from Dr. Lawrence Roberts, who is one of the main physicians in charge of McCloy. The email address is "dr_lawrenceroberts@yahoo.com.co.in" and recipients are requested to respond to the email if they are interested in making a donation.

This e-mail is a hoax. Do not respond.

Be cautious when responding to requests delivered through unsolicited email:

  • Be skeptical of individuals representing themselves as officials asking for donations through unsolicited emails.
  • To ensure contributions are received and used for intended purposes, go directly to recognized organizations, as opposed to relying on others to make the donation on your behalf.

If you have received this, or a similar hoax, please file a complaint at www.IC3.gov.