One person dead, twelve rescued after elevator malfunction at Colorado gold mine with historic significance

Emergency crews responded to a gold mine in Cripple Creek, Colorado after an elevator malfunctioned at the historical Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, resulting in one person’s death. The Teller County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that 12 individuals were trapped approximately 1,000 feet underground before being safely rescued. Sheriff Jason Mikesell stated that the malfunction occurred 500 feet below the surface, posing a significant danger to those involved. Colorado Governor Jared Polis was briefed on the situation, and it was determined that the incident was due to an equipment malfunction rather than a collapse. The mine, which offers tours to visitors, had been closed in the 1960s. Fortunately, no one else was injured in the incident, and the investigation into the cause of the malfunction is ongoing. The deceased individual has not been identified, and the sheriff’s office is continuing to gather information. This tragic event serves as a reminder of the importance of safety protocols in mining operations to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Source
Photo credit www.wvva.com