Gold Mine’s Elevator Malfunctions Killing 1 and Trapping 12

Twelve people were rescued Thursday night after being trapped for six hours in a former Colorado gold mine due to an elevator malfunction that resulted in one fatality, according to local authorities.

The incident occurred at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, a popular tourist destination near Cripple Creek. Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell stated that the elevator experienced a mechanical failure approximately 500 feet below the surface while descending into the mine.

The malfunction posed significant risks to the group, resulting in one person’s death, though the sheriff did not disclose the individual’s identity.

The twelve individuals, trapped about 1,000 feet underground, had access to water, and the underground environment was determined to be safe. They remained in contact with authorities via radio communication throughout the ordeal. Despite the situation, the group maintained good spirits, Sheriff Mikesell reported. Once rescued, they were provided with food and briefed on the incident.

The cause of the elevator malfunction is under investigation. Engineers repaired the elevator, allowing it to be used for the group’s extraction. If repairs had not been possible, rescuers were prepared to use alternative methods, such as ropes.

Earlier that same day, a separate group of 11 people was also rescued from the same elevator. Four individuals sustained minor injuries, though details about their injuries were not provided.

The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, a site that once operated as a gold mine in the late 1800s before ceasing mining operations in 1961, continues to host tours. The elevator typically completes its descent in about two minutes, according to the mine’s website.

Governor Jared Polis sent state resources, including a mine rescue team, to assist with the rescue efforts. The mine, located near the town of Cripple Creek in the Rocky Mountains, is required by the state to conduct daily inspections of its mines and transportation systems, though the timing of the last inspection was not immediately available. An investigation into the incident is ongoing.