Rescue operations continue at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine in Cripple Creek, Colorado, after an elevator failure left tourists trapped 300 meters underground. As of this report, 23 people have been rescued, but one person tragically died, and four others sustained injuries. The incident occurred around noon on Thursday when a mechanical failure halted the elevator mid-shaft, according to Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell.
“Emergency responders worked quickly to stabilize the situation and maintain communication with those trapped underground,” Mikesell said during a press briefing. “The tourists have been provided with water, blankets, and chairs as we continue our efforts to bring them to safety.”
Engineers and firefighters have been collaborating on repairing the malfunctioning elevator, with state mine safety experts on-site. “If necessary, we are prepared to execute a rope-based rescue, but using the elevator is safer for both the trapped individuals and the first responders,” Mikesell added, emphasizing the risks involved in alternative methods.
A tour guide, who was leading a group at the time of the incident, described the situation as harrowing but commended the professionalism of the emergency team. “We’ve been updated regularly, and everyone is holding up as well as can be expected,” the guide said, speaking via radio.
The mine has been operated as a tourist destination for over 50 years, with only one other safety incident recorded in 1986. Mine owner Ray Gallagher expressed his condolences to the family of the deceased. “This is a tragedy unlike anything we’ve experienced in our decades of operation. Our priority now is the safe rescue of everyone still underground.”
As rescue efforts continue, authorities remain cautious about disclosing the full extent of the situation. Sheriff Mikesell confirmed that while 23 people have been brought to safety, “there is still a lot of work to be done before we can close this chapter.”
The incident has drawn attention to safety procedures at such tourist attractions, and investigations into the exact cause of the elevator malfunction are ongoing. “We will be conducting a thorough review to prevent anything like this from happening again,” Gallagher assured. Updates are expected as the situation develops. GMTNewsng
