NICHOLAS COUNTY, W.Va. (WCHS) — Reactions from across the Mountain State are being shared after search and rescue efforts for a missing miner in Nicholas County came to a tragic end.

The body of Steven Lipscomb, a 42-year-old section foreman, was found at the Rolling Thunder Mine following days of searching, officials confirmed Thursday.

Lipscomb went missing Saturday afternoon after crews struck a pocket of water which flooded the mine, officials said.

Alpha Metallurgical Resources, the Tennessee-based mining company that operates Rolling Thunder, drafted a news release to address the incident.

Alpha’s CEO Andy Edison said Lipscomb was a dedicated employee since 2006, calling his efforts to ensure the safety of his crew “heroic.”

“Our hearts are broken,” Edison wrote. “On behalf of the entire organization, we extend our prayers and deepest sympathies to his wife, two children and all who knew and cared for him.”

The company also commended search and rescue teams.

We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the mine rescue teams, agency officials and all who worked tirelessly under extreme conditions throughout the multi-day rescue and recovery effort. We are deeply saddened by the outcome but thankful for the courage, professionalism and perseverance of these responders.

State leaders shared their thoughts on social media Thursday.

Gov. Patrick Morrisey, who visited the site earlier this week, stated water levels had receded enough for rescue crews to enter the mine about 6 a.m. The governor said Lipscomb's body was found about 90 minutes later.

Gov. Patrick Morrisey and First Lady Denise Morrisey were heartbroken to learn of this tragic loss and are keeping Mr. Lipscomb's family, friends, and fellow workers in their prayers. Today, we grieve for this terrible tragedy and honor the life of one of our own.

Morrisey returned to the mine Thursday to address the media, noting the body will undergo a medical examination and an investigation will progress next week.

U.S. Sen. Jim Justice was left “heartbroken” after learning of Lipscomb’s death and expressed gratitude for the tireless efforts of rescue teams.

We will continue to pray for his loved ones and the entire mining family. Thank you to the teams on the ground who worked nonstop to bring Steve home and to the communities around West Virginia pulling together during this tough time.

U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito also offered condolences.

Miners represent the very best of West Virginia and this community is deeply ingrained in our state’s history. I’ve been deeply inspired by our heroic first responders and divers doing everything possible to bring their colleague home to his loved ones. They demonstrated immense courage and resilience in the face of treacherous circumstances, and I thank them for their efforts.

Former West Virginia governor and U.S. senator Joe Manchin commended the “heroic efforts of mine rescue workers and volunteers.”

Our brave coal miners go into the mines each and every day to help power our nation and provide for their families. Miners like Steve are the backbone of our state and a tragedy like this deeply impacts all of us. Please join us in praying for Steve’s family, friands and loved ones as they grieve this unconscionable loss.

Del. Dean Jeffries said the state lost a "truly great man...a husband, a father, a Marine and a dear friend to many."

Steve lived a life defined by service: service to his country as a proud Marine, to his state as a dedicated coal miner and most importantly to his savior as a faithful Christian. His strength, humility and kindness touched countless lives.

Herbert Hoover High School's football program also recognized Lipscomb, who graduated from Hoover in 2001.

Eyewitness News has multiple crews stationed in Nicholas County Thursday and will continue to provide updates on this story.