Multiple People Trapped in Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine After Equipment Malfunction

A serious incident occurred at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine near Cripple Creek, Colorado, on Thursday afternoon. The Teller County Sheriff's Office (TCSO) reported that multiple people were trapped underground due to an equipment failure.

According to officials, the individuals trapped were part of a tour group. They became stuck near the bottom of the mine, which is approximately 1,000 feet deep. The mine, once a site for gold mining, is now a popular tourist destination where visitors can pay to tour the retired mine underground.

The TCSO confirmed that the incident was due to an equipment malfunction and that the mine did not collapse. However, it is unclear whether anyone is injured or hurt at this time. The Teller County Sheriffs Office is leading the rescue operations, with assistance from multiple agencies including the Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD).

The Colorado Springs Fire Department has dispatched several units to assist in the rescue efforts. Heavy rescue 17, collapse 17, utility 17, battalion chief 1 and 4, and high angle rescue 5 and 13 are all responding from CSFD. The department is reporting that they are working on multiple rescues.

Governor Jared Polis has been in contact with Teller County officials and has pledged state assistance. A Field Manager from the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management is on the scene, and the State Emergency Operations Center has been activated to support resource requests. Additionally, a mine rescue team from the Department of Natural Resources is en route, and a conveyances inspector from the Department of Labor and Employment is also heading to the scene.

As of the latest updates, 11 people have been rescued from the mine. An active search and rescue operation is ongoing, with many still trapped underground. The situation remains developing, and officials are working diligently to ensure a speedy and safe resolution.

The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine is an old gold mine just outside Cripple Creek that has been converted into a tourist attraction. Visitors can take a two-minute ride down into the earth via an elevator and walk about a quarter mile of underground terrain.

This incident highlights the importance of safety protocols in tourist attractions and emergency preparedness. The state's swift response and coordination with local authorities demonstrate their commitment to ensuring public safety during such incidents.

The Teller County Sheriffs Office is expected to hold a press conference later today to provide further updates on the situation. This is a developing story, and Direct Post will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.

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