A tragic incident unfolded at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine in Southern Colorado on Thursday afternoon, resulting in the death of one individual and injuries to four others following an elevator malfunction. The mine, located near Cripple Creek, became the scene of a large-scale rescue operation involving multiple emergency response units.
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Emergency Response Efforts
This Colorado attraction offers guests a thrilling journey back to the days of the “Old West” in Cripple Creek, Colorado. At this location, guests can indulge in the primary elevator attraction and take a 1000-foot descent into the historic vertical mine shaft.
For many, this attraction offered thrills, history, and beauty all in one place. However, the location has now closed indefinitely due to the tragic incident that played out yesterday afternoon.
At approximately 12 p.m., emergency personnel were dispatched to the gold mine after receiving reports of multiple people trapped underground due to the elevator malfunction. Upon arrival, responders learned that an elevator carrying 11 individuals was stuck about 500 feet below the surface.
Authorities successfully brought the elevator back to the surface, but the Teller County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that one person had tragically lost their life. The extent of the injuries sustained by the four other individuals remains undisclosed at this time. Further complicating the situation, another group comprising 12 visitors and their tour guide was trapped approximately 1,000 feet underground on a tour of the historic gold mine.
Rescue Operations and Support
Rescue efforts quickly mobilized with assistance from several agencies, including Divide Fire, the Colorado Springs Fire Department, and the Teller County Sheriff’s Office. Colorado state responders, sent by Governor Jared Polis, were also onsite to provide additional support. In a statement, Governor Polis assured the public of the state’s commitment to the rescue efforts:
“I have spoken to the Teller County Sheriff and County Commissioners and will stay in touch through the course of this rescue effort. The state is assisting Teller County and sending resources to rescue those inside the mine. We will do everything possible and assist the county to ensure a speedy and safe resolution of the situation.”
At 6:31 p.m., Governor Polis provided an update, confirming that a mine rescue team and conveyance inspector were en route to assist with the ongoing rescue operations. Around 7 p.m., officials announced that the elevator had been repaired, allowing rescue teams to begin the process of bringing the remaining individuals to safety.
The 12 visitors and their tour guide were successfully evacuated and safely returned to the surface, with no reported injuries among them. According to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety, tourist mines and their equipment are required to undergo daily inspections.
These inspections typically include checks on ventilation, ground conditions, electrical hazards, and other safety protocols. The extent to which these procedures were followed prior to the accident remains under investigation.
#BREAKING – First responders are converging on the Mollie Kathleen gold mine in Cripple Creek #Colorado after an equipment malfunction at the mine. Widespread reports that ten people are still trapped in the mine while 11 others have been rescued. The gold mine is a tourist pic.twitter.com/5lCBq4CTab
— Brian Maass (@Briancbs4) October 10, 2024
Mine Closure and Condolences
Following the incident, the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine posted an official statement on its website, expressing its condolences and announcing its indefinite closure:
“Recently the Mollie Kathleen experienced a tragic event. We would like to send our prayers and condolences to everyone involved. We would also like to thank all of the first responders and emergency personnel who helped us through such a difficult time. The Mollie Kathleen will be closed until further notice.”
As authorities continue their investigation into the cause of the elevator malfunction, the community remains in mourning over the loss of life and injuries sustained. The Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining, and Safety will likely lead the inquiry, ensuring that all safety regulations are reviewed to prevent similar incidents in the future.