
A tragic elevator incident at Colorado’s Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine claimed the life of a tour guide and trapped tourists underground in October, with authorities recently reporting that the accident was caused by operator error.
At a Glance
- Tour guide Patrick Weier died in an elevator incident at Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine.
- Authorities now attribute the incident to “operator error,” not equipment malfunction.
- Twelve adults were trapped 1,000 feet underground for hours, while eleven people on the elevator were able to be removed quickly.
- The mine is closed for safety review, with no specified reopening date.
- Investigations were launched to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Tragic Incident Unfolds at Historic Colorado Mine
At the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine in Colorado, what began as a routine tour last October ended in tragedy. The incident, which occurred during the mine’s final operational week before winter closure, resulted in the death of tour guide Patrick Weier and left some tourists trapped underground for hours.
Initial reports suggested an elevator malfunction, but state authorities have since determined that the cause was “operator error.”
Colorado investigators blame 'operator error' in deadly 2024 gold mine incident https://t.co/uojKjusp3I
— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) January 17, 2025
Rescue Operation and Immediate Aftermath
The incident unfolded approximately 500 feet beneath the surface, creating what Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell described as a “severe danger for the participants.” Twelve adults found themselves trapped 1,000 feet underground for several hours, while 11 others already on the elevator were rescued quickly. Four individuals sustained mild injuries as a result of the incident.
Despite the challenges, rescuers successfully brought the trapped individuals to the surface within hours. The elevator, typically completing its journey in about two minutes at a speed of 500 feet per minute, became the focus of intense scrutiny following the incident.
Investigation Reveals Surprising Findings
As the investigation unfolded, authorities made a significant discovery. The Teller County Sheriff’s Office reported that the incident was “not attributed to current mine practices or equipment malfunctions.” This finding shifted the focus from potential mechanical issues to human factors in the operation of the mine’s facilities.
The revelation that operator error was responsible for the tragedy has prompted a thorough review of training procedures and safety protocols at the mine. State mining regulators ordered the mine to remain closed until compliance with all safety regulations could be confirmed, underscoring the seriousness with which authorities are treating the incident.
Future Outlook
As the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine remains closed “until further notice,” questions linger about the future of this historic attraction. The incident has brought to light the inherent risks associated with active and abandoned mine sites, with federal authorities noting that dozens of people are injured or killed annually at such locations.
While the mine is expected to resume operations for the 2025 tourist season, the exact reopening date remains uncertain. This pause in operations provides an opportunity for comprehensive safety assessments and improvements, ensuring that such a tragedy never occurs again at this beloved Colorado landmark.
Sources
- Operator error blamed for elevator incident that led to death of guide at former Colorado gold mine
- 1 killed, 23 rescued after equipment malfunction at tourist gold mine in Colorado
- Colorado investigators blame ‘operator error’ in deadly 2024 gold mine incident