Elevator Failure at Molloe Kathleen Mine in Colorado Leaves Fatalities and Dozens Trapped
At least one person has died, about a dozen were trapped, and several others were injured on Thursday after an elevator malfunction at the Molloe Kathleen tourist mine in Colorado. Emergency crews responded quickly as the site’s guided tours continued under safety protocols and the rescue operation got underway with multiple teams linked to local authorities.
Local authorities reported that eleven people have been rescued and the remaining twelve are still waiting to be reached. The Teller County Sheriff’s Office told NBC News that the circumstances surrounding the fatality have not yet been released, while investigators begin a careful review of what happened. The incident has prompted a detailed look at the reliability of equipment used in tourist mining operations and the ongoing readiness of emergency response plans for heritage attractions.
Officials clarified that there was no collapse of the mine and that the incident appears to have been caused by a failure in the mine’s equipment. The mine’s last recorded accident occurred in 1986. Those still inside have received water and towels and remain in contact with rescue teams through established communication lines. People who have already exited described neck and back pain, and some were described as traumatized by the experience. Rescue coordinators have emphasized that the safety of all guests remains the top priority as crews work to stabilize the situation.
Two children were among those affected, though officials have withheld further details about their condition. The Molloe Kathleen Mine markets one hour guided tours that descend vertically about one hundred floors beneath the surface to illustrate the evolution of open pit mining. The site was slated to close this Sunday, ending the 2024 tourist season, and officials expect to review the events in the days ahead to prevent a recurrence.
The incident underscores the ongoing importance of rigorous safety training, meticulous maintenance, and ready access to emergency response at heritage and tourist mining sites. Rescue crews, joined by mine safety personnel and local responders, continued coordinated efforts to reach everyone still inside while ensuring medical care for those who have already exited. Investigations will examine equipment maintenance logs, operator procedures, and the capacity of rescue systems to adapt to sudden faults and changing conditions inside the shaft.
In the weeks ahead, officials and tourism leaders in Colorado will be watching closely how facilities manage risk in commercial mines that offer educational experiences. The incident has sparked questions about safety standards in open pit mining attractions and the steps operators take to protect visitors. For families planning future trips, the story serves as a reminder of the value of clear safety briefings, emergency exits, and reliable communication with rescue teams. Communities in both the United States and Canada will be listening for updates as authorities determine next steps and strengthen safeguards for similar sites.