Twenty-three people were rescued Thursday night after 12 were trapped over 1,000 feet underground in a former Colorado gold mine for six hours, while the others were brought to safety sooner.
One person had earlier been killed in the incident that was caused by an elevator malfunction in Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, which is popular with tourists.
At least 11 people had earlier been rescued, but 12 remained trapped at the bottom of the mine-turned-tourist attraction. Four had minor injuries, said Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell, who did not elaborate on how they were injured.
Mikesell confirmed that one person was killed but did not disclose the victim’s identity or details about the death.
The elevator experienced a mechanical failure at about 500 feet beneath the surface.
The elevator typically takes about two minutes to descend the full 1,000 feet.
Those stuck underground had access to water and were able to communicate with the authorities via radio, Mikesell said.
Upon rescue, the dozen who were trapped were given pizza. While trapped at the bottom of the mine, they were only informed that there had been an issue with the elevator.
Mikesell had earlier said the group was safe and had communicated with rescuers working to restore the elevator system. He added that if necessary, they could be rescued by rope.
Officials were unsure what caused the mechanical failure.
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis said earlier that the state was sending resources and had already sent personnel to assist with the rescue effort and support local authorities.
“We will do everything possible and assist the county to ensure a speedy and safe resolution of the situation,” Polis said on X.
The Mollie Kathleen Mine in Cripple Creek operates tours that take visitors 100 stories underground.
The original mine was opened in the 1800s and ceased operations in the 1960s.
Cripple Creek, a town of about 1,100 people, is located southwest of Colorado Springs.
