Colorado Mine Rescue Gets Wild – 1 Dead, 23 Pulled Out Just in Time!

A tragic incident unfolded Thursday at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine in Cripple Creek, Colorado, leaving one person dead and nearly two dozen others trapped underground. The group, part of a mine tour, found themselves stuck due to an elevator malfunction, sparking a large-scale rescue operation.

According to Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell, the equipment failure occurred around noon MDT. A total of 23 people were trapped in the mine shaft, with one unfortunate fatality. “I am relieved that 12 of the people trapped in the Mollie Kathleen Mine have been safely rescued,” said Colorado Governor Jared Polis in a statement later that evening. He added, “Our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the individual lost in this incident.”

The rescue operation began swiftly, with 11 people—including two children—brought to safety earlier in the day. Sheriff Mikesell explained that rescuers worked in teams, bringing up the remaining 12 people in groups of four. The mission was delicate, but rescuers were able to manage the situation efficiently.

Details surrounding the fatality have been linked to the elevator malfunction, though officials have not provided additional information. However, the elevator’s role in the incident was a central focus during the rescue efforts.

Engineers on-site had to repair the malfunctioning elevator, which had become stuck at a depth of 500 feet. Once the repairs were completed, safety checks were conducted by sending the elevator down to the 1,000-foot level and back up. After confirming its functionality, the rescue operation was able to proceed.

Seven of the rescued individuals were taken to UCHealth for treatment, though all were later released. The group reportedly had access to water, blankets, and chairs during their time underground, and communication with rescuers remained open throughout the ordeal. Sheriff Mikesell assured the public that there was no immediate danger of oxygen depletion during the rescue.

The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, a popular tourist destination that plunges nearly 1,000 feet into the earth, had not experienced an incident of this nature since 1986. Multiple agencies, including search and rescue teams, responded to the scene with heavy equipment to aid in the operation.

Gov. Polis, who closely monitored the situation, had spoken with Teller County officials and confirmed that state resources were being deployed to support the rescue. “We will do everything possible and assist the county to ensure a speedy and safe resolution of the situation,” Polis said earlier in the day.

As with any such event, investigations will follow. Both the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Mine Safety officials will be conducting thorough inquiries to determine the cause of the malfunction and prevent future incidents.

This event has shaken the local community, serving as a reminder of the inherent risks involved in mining operations, even in the case of tours designed for public enjoyment. Despite the unfortunate loss, the swift actions of the rescue teams ensured that many lives were saved, and a potential larger tragedy was averted.