Tragic Accident Claims Life of Colorado Tour Guide in Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine
A tragic accident on Thursday claimed the life of 46-year-old Patrick Weier, a tour guide at Colorado’s Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine. Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell identified Weier following the incident, leaving behind a 7-year-old son in Victor, Colorado.
“I’m pretty drained,” expressed Ruth Weier, Patrick’s mother, noting the extensive support and tributes pouring in for her son. Patrick Weier had moved to Colorado from the Chicago area, where he claimed fame as a mascot dubbed “Billy Cub” at Chicago Cubs baseball games.
Details of the Accident
The fatal incident occurred approximately 500 feet underground while Weier was operating the elevator in one of the mine’s shafts. Four others aboard received minor injuries and were brought to the surface, where they were met by mental health and emergency response teams.
Meanwhile, another group of tour visitors, further down the mine at the time of the accident, faced a tense six-hour wait to emerge. They were initially unaware of the severity of the incident.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have initiated an investigation, drawing in the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) to uncover the cause of the accident.
“We don’t know what caused the failure to occur 500 feet down, but it was evidently related to a mechanical issue with the elevator doors,” Sheriff Mikesell indicated, explaining that the elevator had experienced a minor drop and the doors were damaged. Sadly, incidents like this remain a risk in the dangerous environment of mining.
Reactions and Safety Protocol
Local mine workers echoed their shock over the unfortunate accident. “As a tour guide, you feel responsible for the safety of those you’re accompanying,” former employee William Snare reflected, noting that safety inspections–including gas monitoring and equipment check-ups–are rigorous in such environments.
Impact on Tourists and Community
Those involved in the accident were brought to a briefing where they learned of Weier’s passing. Sheriff Mikesell explained, “We made the decision not to disclose the death during the emergency response to avoid causing panic among those further in the mine.” Follow-up mental health support was promptly provided to all affected tourists.
Mine’s Safety Record
The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, while not an active mining operation, boasts a historic legacy of guided tours for approximately six decades. Located a half mile from active operations, the mine experienced no accidents over the past 40 years, marking this incident as a significant deviation from its noted safety record.
