**Governor Polis Praises Rescue Efforts Following Mollie Kathleen Mine Incident**

Governor Jared Polis expressed relief on Thursday night after the successful rescue of 12 individuals who had been trapped in the Mollie Kathleen Mine. "I am relieved that 12 of the people trapped in the Mollie Kathleen Mine have been safely rescued," Polis stated. He also extended his deepest condolences to the family and friends of the individual who lost their life in the incident. Governor Polis thanked Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell and his team, alongside other law enforcement and first responders from both local and state governments, for their immediate and tireless response. Contribution from members of the Department of Natural Resources, the Department of Labor and Employment, and the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management was also acknowledged.

The trapped individuals were provided with blankets, chairs, and water while being in constant communication with responders at the surface. Although officials did not specify the problem with the elevator, they confirmed that an inspection found no debris blocking the rails or cables. After conducting a test run, the elevator was deemed safe and was subsequently used to rescue all 12 individuals.

Earlier in the day, officials reported that at least four people had sustained minor injuries, including back and neck pain. They were treated on site. Two children among the rescued were given mental health services. Teller County Sheriff's Office spokeswoman Renee Bunting confirmed that the mine did not collapse, but she could not provide further details about the incident.

The deceased person, whose body was retrieved from the mine, has not been identified by officials. However, reports from KOAA through NBC News indicated that the deceased was an employee of the mine. The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, now a tourist attraction, offers tours that take visitors 1,000 feet below ground, even though its elevator shaft goes deeper. The mine, situated in Colorado, was originally a site for gold extraction but has since been repurposed to educate and entertain visitors.