At least one person has lost their life, and 12 others are trapped in an abandoned gold mine in Colorado due to a malfunction of equipment, according to officials.
The trapped individuals are part of a group of tourists who are stranded near the base of the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine in Cripple Creek.
“There is an elevator issue to resolve before they could be brought up,” Sheriff Jason Mike told reporters.
The mine has served as a popular tourist destination for more than 50 years.
Visitors typically embark on a one-hour tour that descends 1,000 feet (305 metres) down the shaft into the southwestern side of Pikes Peak, as detailed on the tour company’s website.
Emergency responders have successfully rescued 11 individuals, with at least four suffering from minor injuries.
According to Sheriff Mike, officials are maintaining constant communication with the 12 people who remain trapped.
“They have chairs, blankets, and water and are at a safe temperature,” he said. “This was due to an equipment malfunction. The mine did not collapse. ”
Colorado Governor Jared Polis said state resources had been allocated to assist with the rescue efforts.
“We will do everything possible and assist the county to ensure a speedy and safe resolution of the situation,” Governor Polis said.
According to the tour company’s website, entering the mine is comparable to riding in a lift.
The ride itself takes two minutes at a speed of 500 ft per minute (roughly 5 mph).