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Tragedy Strikes: Tourist Dead and 23 in Peril After ‘Gold Mine’ Attraction Incident

A sign for "The World Famous Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine Tour" promoting a descent 1,000 feet underground. Next to it, a parked ambulance with flashing lights is visible at night.
Credit: Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine Tour, Canva

An elevator malfunction at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine in Cripple Creek, Colorado, has left one person dead and four others injured. This incident occurred during a guided tour on a Thursday afternoon, leading to a complex emergency response involving multiple agencies.

The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, a significant attraction in Southern Colorado, offers a unique experience by allowing visitors to descend 1,000 feet into a historic vertical mine shaft. This incident marks a tragic turn for a venue that was cherished for its historical significance and engaging tours related to the Colorado Gold Mine era.

Around noon, emergency responders received alarming reports of individuals trapped underground due to the elevator failure. The situation escalated quickly as rescuers arrived to discover that the elevator was stuck approximately 500 feet below the surface, carrying 11 individuals at the time.

Tragically, despite subsequent rescue attempts, one person was confirmed deceased. The injured were promptly attended to, yet specifics regarding their conditions remain undisclosed. Compounding the crisis, another party of 12 visitors, along with their tour guide, found themselves trapped roughly 1,000 feet underground during the incident.

Related: Father Reportedly Interferes With Lifeguard Rescue at Disney World, Risks Daughter’s Life

Sign for the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine Tour, advertising a descent of 1,000 feet underground. The sign is situated in an outdoor setting.

Credit: Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine Tour

Emergency Response and Rescue Efforts

Rescue operations began immediately, with several agencies converging on the scene to assist. The Divide Fire Department, Colorado Springs Fire Department, and the Teller County Sheriff’s Office played pivotal roles in the response. The gravity of the situation prompted the Governor of Colorado, Jared Polis, to send additional resources to support the rescue effort. The collaborative work of emergency responders aimed at prioritizing the safety of those trapped while managing the challenges posed by the situation.

The timeline of the responses depicted a frantic yet organized operation following the failure of the elevator. Initial distress calls were made shortly after noon, with emergency personnel dispatched promptly.

Upon arrival, they recognized the necessity of both immediate and strategic actions. Efforts focused primarily on restoring the elevator’s functionality and ensuring the safe return of individuals trapped within. By late afternoon, with the assistance of specialized teams, the elevator was successfully repaired, enabling the recovery of the remaining group of 12 and their tour guide.

A person operates machinery inside a rocky tunnel, likely a mining operation. On the left, a framed information board is visible. The tunnel is dimly lit, with rough stone walls surrounding the scene.

Credit: Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine Tour

Safety Regulations and Investigations

In light of this unfortunate occurrence, discussions surrounding safety regulations and compliance standards have gained momentum. The Colorado Gold Mine, known for its immersive experiences, is required to adhere to strict safety protocols, including daily inspections of machinery and infrastructure.

These inspections encompass various aspects, such as ventilation, ground stability, and electrical systems, aimed at minimizing risks for visitors. It is unclear if the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine Tour failed to adhere to these protocols.

Community Response and Mine Closure

In the aftermath of the incident, the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine issued an official statement expressing deep condolences and announcing its indefinite closure. This unfortunate event has left a significant mark on the community, which has been known to embrace the rich history of gold mining in the region. The message reads:

“Recently the Mollie Kathleen experienced
a tragic event.
We would like to send our prayers and condolences to everyone involved.

We would also like to thank all of the first responders and emergency personnel who helped us through such a difficult time.

The Mollie Kathleen will be closed until further notice.”

Plans regarding future operations at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine remain uncertain, as safety evaluations and regulatory reviews will likely dictate the trajectory of its reopening. In the meantime, many will be wishing for the recovery of those injured in this tragic accident.

About Eva Miller

Eva was born and raised in the beautiful state of Oregon but has since relocated and lives in New York City. Since she was young, Eva has loved to perform in musicals, especially Disney ones! Through performing, Disney’s music became the soundtrack of her childhood. Today, Eva loves to write about all the exciting happenings for the Walt Disney Company. In her free time, Eva loves to travel, spend time in nature, and go to Broadway shows. Her favorite Disney movie is 'Lilo and Stitch,' and her favorite Park is Disney's Animal Kingdom.

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