A tragic incident occurred at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine in Colorado on Oct. 10, resulting in the death of mine tour guide Patrick Weier and the rescue of 23 others. The victim, identified as 46-year-old Weier, worked at the mine in Cripple Creek and was a resident of Victor. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with officials working to determine the cause of the elevator malfunction that led to Weier’s death and the rescue of other individuals trapped underground.
Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell noted that the mine owners have a good safety record, describing the incident as a “tragic accident” that can occur when working with heavy machinery. Colorado Gov. Jared Polis issued a statement expressing condolences to Weier’s family and friends and relief that the 12 individuals trapped in the mine were safely rescued.
During the incident, a group of 12 people faced severe danger when the elevator car they were riding malfunctioned approximately 500 feet below the surface. Despite some injuries, all individuals were safely rescued. Another group of 12 individuals had to wait in the mine for approximately six hours in 50-degree temperatures before being rescued due to the elevator malfunction.
Despite the tragic loss of Weier, the successful rescue of 23 individuals trapped in the mine has been seen as a positive outcome. The investigation into the incident continues as officials work to ensure the safety and security of miners and tour guides at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine.
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