An equipment failure at the historic Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine in Colorado has resulted in a tragic incident, claiming one life and leaving a dozen individuals trapped underground, authorities reported on Thursday. The mine, located near the town of Cripple Creek and known for its tourist attractions, was the site of a mechanical issue that has prompted a significant rescue operation.
The Incident Unfolds
According to Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell, the incident occurred when an elevator used to transport visitors descended approximately 500 feet (152 meters) into the mine. A mechanical failure led to a severe danger for the individuals inside the elevator, resulting in one fatality. Mikesell confirmed the death during a press conference, expressing condolences to the victim’s family.
Despite the tragic loss, rescue crews were able to evacuate 11 people who were also on the elevator at the time of the malfunction. However, 12 individuals remain trapped at a depth of about 1,000 feet (305 meters) below the surface. Fortunately, those trapped have maintained communication with authorities and are reported to be in safe conditions.
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Ongoing Rescue Efforts
Rescue teams are working diligently to restore the elevator system to facilitate a safe evacuation of the remaining individuals. Sheriff Mikesell indicated that if necessary, they could use ropes to rescue the trapped group, but efforts are focused on getting the elevator operational again as soon as possible.
“This is a challenging situation, but our teams are committed to ensuring the safety of those still in the mine,” Mikesell stated. He also noted that the last significant incident at the mine occurred back in 1986, emphasizing the rarity of such events.
A Historical Context
The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine has a storied history, having first opened in the 1800s and operating until its closure in the 1960s. Today, it serves as a tourist attraction, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the mining industry. Tours typically involve a one-hour descent that allows guests to see veins of gold in the rock and experience an underground tram ride.
The mine’s website highlights the excitement of exploring the depths of the earth, but this incident has cast a shadow over its reputation. As rescue efforts continue, the safety of future tours and operations will likely come under scrutiny.
State Support and Resources
In response to the incident, Colorado Governor Jared Polis issued a statement assuring that the state is providing resources to support the rescue operations. “We will do everything possible to assist the county and ensure a speedy and safe resolution of the situation,” Polis said, underlining the importance of community and state collaboration in emergency situations.
As rescue crews continue their efforts, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of those still trapped and preventing further incidents at this historic site. The situation is developing, and updates will be provided as they become available.
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