Colorado gold mine update: Trapped tourists rescued after one person dies in Mollie Kathleen accident
Twelve people stranded 1,000 feet deep in a Colorado gold mine have been rescued after one person died in the horrific incident.
A malfunction in the elevator system at the Mollie Kathleen gold mine near Cripple Creek killed the unidentified person and trapped twelve others.
On Thursday evening, officials managed to repair the lift system and bring those remaining in the mine, including 11 tourists, to the surface.
At an earlier news conference, Sheriff Jason Mikesell of the Teller County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the death of one person.
He said rescue teams arrived and managed to rescue 11 people trapped halfway down the shaft, while the 12 remained stranded.
On Thursday evening, officials managed to repair the lift system and bring those left in the mine, including eleven tourists, to the surface
At an earlier news conference, Sheriff Jason Mikesell of the Teller County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the death of one person
According to the sheriff, a malfunction in the elevator system posed a “serious danger” to those on board while they were 500 feet deep in the mine.
He said at least four people suffered minor injuries, including back and neck pain, and were treated at the scene.
After the rescue, the Teller County Sheriff’s Office said all remaining 12 were unharmed.
Authorities had previously said those trapped at the bottom had blankets, chairs, water and means of communication with rescue teams on the surface.
The Colorado Springs Fire Department confirmed the successful rescue, saying, “We are pleased to hear that all twelve people still in the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine were safely rescued.
“We are grateful for the work of all the first responders who ensured the safety of those still inside.
“Our condolences go out to the family who have lost a loved one this evening, please keep them in your prayers.”
While Governor Jared Polis said in a statement: “I am relieved that twelve of the people trapped in the Mollie Kathleen Mine have been safely rescued.
First responders are working here after the incident Thursday afternoon
According to the sheriff, a malfunction in the elevator system created a “serious danger” to those on board while they were 500 feet deep in the mine.
The mine, a tourist attraction, officially closed in the 1960s but continues to offer tours that take people 100 stories deep into the earth
According to Mollie Kathleen’s website, next Sunday would be the last day of the season’s tours
“Our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the person who lost their lives in this incident.”
The mine, a tourist attraction, officially closed in the 1960s but continues to offer tours that take people up to 100 stories deep into the earth.
According to the company’s website, the tour includes a two-minute drive to the mine, where tourists can walk a quarter mile of underground terrain.
According to Mollie Kathleen’s website, next Sunday would be the last day of the season’s tours.