1 dead, 12 stuck underground in incident at Mollie Kathleen gold mine near Cripple Creek

CRIPPLE CREEK, Colo. (KKTV) – Emergency crews responded to the Mollie Kathleen gold mine near Cripple Creek to reports of several people trapped 1,000 feet underground after an elevator malfunction occurred Thursday afternoon.

The Teller County Sheriff's Office confirmed that one person was killed in the incident. Several were injured, but officials did not disclose the extent of the injuries.

As of 4:20 p.m., Teller County officials said 11 people had been rescued and 12 were still stuck in the mine, 1,000 feet underground but safe. Officials said they were working to find a way to rescue her.

“Just a quick update on today’s incident at the Molly Kathleen Mine in Cripple Creek,” the Teller County Sheriff’s Office said around 2:10 p.m. “This was due to an equipment malfunction. The mine didn’t collapse.”

Multiple units assisted in the rescue, including Divide Fire, the Colorado Springs Fire Department and the Teller County Sheriff's Office, as well as state responders dispatched by Colorado Governor Polis.

“I have spoken with the Teller County Sheriff and County Commissioners and will remain in touch as this rescue operation progresses. The state is supporting Teller County and providing resources to save the mine's residents. We will do everything possible to help the county ensure a quick and safe resolution of the situation,” said Governor Jared Polis.

The final public tour of the mine this season was scheduled for next Sunday.

According to the Colorado Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety, tourist mines and transportation equipment should be inspected daily. “Any inspection checklist should include, at a minimum, checks for proper ventilation, soil conditions and control, electrical hazards, general mine hazards, etc.”

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