Tragedy Strikes as Tourists Trapped in Colorado Gold Mine Elevator Failure
DENVER (AP) — An unforgettable visit to a historic Colorado gold mine turned into a nightmare on Thursday night as an elevator malfunction trapped 12 tourists for six hours underground, leading to a fatality, authorities confirmed.
Incident Overview
The elevator, which was making its descent into the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine near Cripple Creek, encountered a mechanical failure approximately 500 feet (150 meters) below the surface. Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell described the situation as a “severe danger for the participants.”
Rescue Operations
The trapped group, located about 1,000 feet (305 meters) underground, was in a secure environment with access to water and good air quality. Communication was maintained with rescuers via radio. After their eventual safe extraction, the group was provided with food as a comfort.
Immediate Aftermath
Officials confirmed that another group of 11 tourists, caught in the elevator during the same timeframe, was successfully rescued prior to the trapped group’s release. Four individuals sustained minor injuries, the specifics of which were not disclosed.
Investigation Underway
Officials are currently investigating the cause of the elevator malfunction. During a subsequent night briefing, Sheriff Mikesell indicated that safety measures were taken to ensure the elevator was operational before the trapped tourists were brought back up. Preparations for a potential rope extraction were also made should the elevator have remained inoperative.
Victims and the Mine’s History
The identity of the fatality victim has not yet been disclosed. Sheriff Mikesell noted that the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, a significant tourist destination, was nearing the end of its operational season. The last recorded safety incident at the mine occurred in the 1980s and did not result in any fatalities.
Regulatory Framework
Colorado mines that double as tourist spots are mandated to have daily safety inspections of their equipment. Sheriff Mikesell was unable to confirm the date of the last inspection, as records were not immediately accessible online.
Local Support and Community Impact
In response to the incident, Colorado Governor Jared Polis directed state resources, including a mine rescue team, to the scene. Cripple Creek, a small mountain town of around 1,100 residents located southwest of Colorado Springs, has a historic connection to gold mining, with the Mollie Kathleen mine opening in the 1800s but ceasing extraction operations in 1961.
