One person died and 23 others were rescued after an elevator malfunctioned at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine in Cripple Creek, Colo. Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell stated that a group of 12 guests faced “severe danger” when the elevator car they were riding experienced a mechanical issue about 500 feet below the surface. Another group of 12 guests was stuck approximately 1,000 feet underground until they were rescued after waiting for about six hours in 50-degree temperatures.
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis expressed relief that the trapped individuals were safely rescued and offered condolences to the family of the deceased. Four of the 11 rescued from the first group were treated for injuries by paramedics, while the name of the deceased individual was not revealed to the public. The group trapped 1,000 feet below the surface was not initially aware of the extent of the situation until informed during rescue operations.
An investigation into the cause of the elevator malfunction is now underway. The family-owned gold mine, which opened in the 1800s and closed in 1961, operates as a tourist attraction. Thanks to the collaborative efforts of emergency responders, all individuals involved in the incident were able to return home safely. Relatives of those affected have been informed and provided with support during this challenging time.
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