Mining Accident Claims Life of Tour Guide in Cripple Creek, Colorado
Cripple Creek, Colorado – A tragic incident occurred at the mollie kathleen gold mine on October 10, 2024, when a mechanical failure of an elevator during a guided tour resulted in the death of a tour guide and injured four others. The event has raised concerns about safety protocols and equipment maintenance at the long-standing tourist attraction.
On Thursday, around noon, the elevator was in the process of descending into the mine, located approximately 1,000 feet beneath the surface. As the elevator reached about 500 feet down, the operator noticed something unusual and promptly halted the descent. Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell confirmed that, despite the issues, the elevator remained operational and the majority of those on board were brought back up within twenty minutes.
However, the situation turned dire for Patrick Weier, the 46-year-old tour guide from Victor, Colorado, as he became trapped during the incident. Weier, who was described as an experienced guide and miner, tragically did not survive. Reports indicate that the elevator door was broken when it was pulled back to the surface, but it remains unclear whether the door malfunctioned independently or if there were other contributing factors.
Details of the Incident
Eleven other individuals were aboard the elevator at the time of the malfunction, including two children. While they managed to return to the surface safely, four individuals suffered from minor injuries such as back, neck, and arm pain. Meanwhile, a second group of twelve people remained trapped at the bottom of the mine for about six hours. This group was able to communicate with authorities via radios and received access to water while they awaited rescue.
Emergency response teams were able to hoist the trapped individuals up, bringing them back to the surface in groups of four. “It was a bit chaotic, but everyone seemed to support each other,” said Ted Borden, a representative from the Community of Caring Foundation in Cripple Creek, who later provided assistance to those affected.
History and Safety of the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine
Mining accidents like this one are quite rare. Steven Schafrik, an associate professor of mining engineering, noted that modern mining elevators are designed with fail-safe devices that prevent severe incidents, even in cases of cable failure. He emphasized the overall safety of mining elevators, though he refrained from commenting specifically on this incident.
Historically, the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine has operated as a tourist attraction since its closure for mining operations in 1961. The mine offers guided tours that allow visitors to explore the rich history of gold mining in the area, including the sight of actual gold veins in the rock. The mine’s current owners expressed deep condolences to Weier’s family and have announced the closure of the mine until further notice as investigations begin.
Investigation and Future Actions
Authorities from local and state entities, including the U.S. Mine Safety and Health Administration and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, are investigating the accident. Mikesell mentioned that the mine owners had traditionally been diligent in ensuring safety measures were in place, including daily inspections mandated by the state.
The last inspection date is currently unknown, and the mine’s website indicates previous updates made to the elevator system in 1988 to enhance safety. In light of this incident, it remains to be seen how investigations will unfold and what changes may be implemented to prevent future occurrences.
The community of Cripple Creek, with a population of around 1,100, relies heavily on the tourism this historic mine generates. As this tragedy unfolds, local residents and officials focus on supporting the affected individuals and their families during this difficult time.
