A tragic elevator malfunction at a Colorado gold mine has left one person dead and at least 12 others trapped underground during a tour, according to a report.
The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine located in Cripple Creek, Colorado, is a popular destination that's been attracting tourists for more than 50 years. Visitors often take an hour-long tour that descends around 1,000 feet underground.
On Thursday afternoon, an apparent equipment failure in the mine's elevator system during one of the tours triggered a major emergency, according to ABC News. This is the first serious incident at the mine since 1986.
As of Thursday, emergency responders had successfully rescued 11 people, including two children. One person was confirmed dead at the scene, and 12 other individuals remain trapped, according to the outlet.
The 12 people left in the shaft were given chairs, blankets, and water to hold them over until they can be fully rescued.
"There is an elevator issue to resolve before they could be brought up," Sheriff Jason Mikesell said, according to the outlet. "What I want to make sure before we bring up an elevator with people on it, is that it's safe, that this vehicle is safe for them to get to the surface."
Mikesell also confirmed the remaining individuals have plenty of oxygen and that there are alternative rescue plans in place if necessary.
"We also have other plans in case of an issue -- including ropes teams," Mikesell said.
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