A thrilling tour of the historic Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine in Cripple Creek, Colorado, turned into a nightmare when an elevator malfunction trapped 12 people nearly 1,000 feet underground, leaving one dead and four others injured. The group of visitors had been enjoying a glimpse into the mine’s rich history when disaster struck, sparking a dramatic rescue operation.
The incident occurred when a mine elevator malfunctioned, initially trapping a group of tourists about 500 feet below the surface. One person was tragically killed, though the exact circumstances remain unclear, and four others were injured. Authorities quickly launched an intense rescue effort to free the remaining visitors, who were stranded deeper in the mine along with a worker.
Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell, in a press conference, reassured the public that the trapped group had access to essentials such as water, chairs, and blankets, while a skilled rescue team worked tirelessly to bring them to safety. Rope teams from the Colorado Springs Fire Department were on standby in case the malfunctioning elevator couldn’t be repaired.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis expressed his concern, stating that state and local authorities were working together to ensure a safe and swift resolution to the harrowing situation.
The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, known for its tours that descend 1,000 feet into the earth, has long been a popular attraction. The mine, which opened in the late 1800s, hasn’t experienced such an incident in nearly four decades, marking this as a rare and tragic moment in its history.
While the investigation into the cause of the malfunction continues, the successful rescue of the 12 trapped visitors is a bittersweet relief in the wake of an unfortunate loss.
