### Elevator Malfunction Traps 12 in Colorado Mine, One Fatality Reported

DENVER – An elevator malfunction at a historic Colorado gold mine left twelve people trapped for roughly six hours, resulting in the death of one individual. The incident occurred on Thursday night at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine near Cripple Creek.

According to Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell, the elevator, which was descending approximately 500 feet below the surface, encountered a mechanical issue, creating a highly dangerous situation. Though the specifics of the malfunction remain unclear, an investigation is underway to determine the cause.

The twelve trapped adults were about 1,000 feet below ground but had access to water, and the air quality was deemed safe. They maintained communication with rescue teams via radios and were described as being in good spirits after their eventual rescue, Sheriff Mikesell reported. After being brought to safety, they were treated to pizza and informed about the full extent of the incident.

Earlier in the afternoon, another group of eleven people was rescued from the elevator, with four sustaining minor injuries. Details regarding the nature of these injuries were not disclosed.

Authorities worked diligently to ensure the elevator's operational safety before using it to bring the stranded visitors back to the surface. They also had a rope rescue plan in place as a contingency measure. Sheriff Mikesell declined to release the identity of the deceased.

The accident was reported around noon and occurred just as the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine was concluding its tourist season before the winter closure.