Trapped survivors safely rescued from Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine near Cripple Creek

TELLER COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) - The elevator at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine is functioning again and rescuers have safely brought up the 12 people who were trapped 1,000 feet down in the mine, according to the Teller County Sheriff's Office (TCSO)

The latest update from officials after all parties were rescued can be watched below:

Colorado Governor Jared Polis also confirmed the rescue Thursday night, saying:
“I am relieved that 12 of the people trapped in the Mollie Kathleen Mine have been safely rescued. Our deepest condolences to the family and friends of the individual lost in this incident. I thank Teller County and Sheriff Mikesell and his team, as well as the other law enforcement and first responders from local and state government for their swift response and tireless efforts, including members of the Department of Natural Resources, the Department of Labor and Employment, and the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. Thanks to this collaborative effort, each of these individuals will return home safely,”

The TCSO responded Thursday afternoon to what they called initially called a serious incident at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine near Cripple Creek.

12 people were trapped 1,000 feet underground after an "equipment failure." Officials told ABC the individuals were part of a tour group and that they became stuck near the bottom of Molly Kathleen Mine.

11 other people were rescued early on in the incident.

The Teller County Sheriff's Office held a press conference Thursday afternoon to provide the latest information on the situation at the time. That press conference can be viewed below:

The TCSO confirmed that one person is dead. 4 people were injured in the initial incident. 2 children were involved and were part of the 11 that were initially rescued.

Teller County Commissioners confirmed early on in the incident that they were working with the governor, who sent resources. Specifically, the state sent a Field Manager from the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to the scene. The State Emergency Operations Center was activated and supported resource requests. A mine rescue team from the Department of Natural Resources also responded, as did a conveyances inspector from the Department of Labor and Employment.

TCSO said that the incident was due to an equipment malfunction and reiterated that the mine did not collapse.

“I have spoken to the Teller County Sheriff and County Commissioners and will stay in touch through the course of this rescue effort. The state is assisting Teller County and sending resources to rescue those inside the mine. We will do everything possible and assist the county to ensure a speedy and safe resolution of the situation,” Governor Jared Polis said early on during the incident.

Later, after learning of the death at the mine, Governor Polis released the following statement:

“I am saddened to learn of the loss of a life in this tragic accident and my heart goes out to the family and loved ones during this difficult time. While we are still gathering information, the State of Colorado is doing everything in our power to support local authorities and ensure the safe rescue of those who are still in the mine. I have been in close contact with local authorities and continue to monitor the situation closely as we direct state resources to support the swift and safe resolution of this unfortunate event,” said Governor Polis. 

The Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD) also responded as mutual aid for the rescue. Heavy rescue 17, collapse 17, utility 17, battalion chief 1 and 4, and, high angle rescue 5 and 13 all responded from CSFD.

The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine is an old gold mine just outside Cripple Creek that is now a site people can pay to tour the retired mine underground.