Former employee sues Arch Coal, quit because of co-worker

BECKLEY - A Raleigh County resident is suing his former employer over claims of hostile work environment.

Luke Shumate filed a lawsuit Aug. 9 in the Circuit Court of Raleigh County against Arch Coal Inc. and Mike Williams, citing hostile work environment, intentional infliction of emotional distress, wrongful termination, retaliatory discharge, violation of statute and assault.

Shumate alleges he started working for Arch Coal in 2009 and in 2012, Williams began threatening the plaintiff during his shifts. The plaintiff states that Arch Coal assured Shumate he would no longer work with Williams, but a few weeks later they were scheduled for the same shift.

The plaintiff refused to work with Williams and was terminated, according to the complaint.

Shumate is seeking an undisclosed amount in damages, including punitive damages. He is being represented in the case by Fayetteville attorney Thomas A. Rist of Rist Law Offices PC.

Circuit Court of Raleigh County Case No. 13-C-648.