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One person dead, 23 others rescued following accident at tourist mine in Colorado

One person dead, 23 others rescued following accident at tourist mine in Colorado

A file photo of the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine in Cripple Creek.

One person died and 23 others were rescued following an accident at a tourist mine in the US state of Colorado, American media reported on Thursday (Oct 10). Dozens were trapped insideMollie Kathleen Gold Mine in Cripple Creek before they were rescued.

According to a report by CNN, 11 people were rescued first and the remaining later. Speaking to reporters,Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell said that on Thursday afternoon, the mine experienceda mechanical issue with its elevator system, causingsevere danger for the participants.

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The cause of the accident and the details of the deceased person were not yet known.

Rescued people include two children

Teller County Sheriff Mikesell told reporters that among the rescued, two were childrenand four were attendedby medical personnel for minor injuries.

CNN reported that as the dozen peopletrapped faced cold temperatures around 10 degrees Celsius, they were provided with water, blankets, chairs and a radio. However, facilities like restrooms were not available underground.

In a statement, Colorado Governor Jared Polis expressed condolences to the family and friends of the victim.

Mine last experienced accident in 1986

Mikesell also said on Thursday that theMollie Kathleen Gold Minelast experienced an accident in 1986. The sheriff pointed out that the mine had been operating as a family-owned tourist attraction for well over 50 years.

According to the mine's website, the tour (of the facility) lasts for an hour. "The tour itself is not claustrophobic but, the descent in the shaft is very close for 2 minutes. You can do it," the website states.

People are advised to leave behind backpacks, large items, large purses, pets, and camera equipment when they tour the mine.

(With inputs from agencies)