One person died and 23 others were rescued after an accident at a tourist mine in Colorado

One person died and 23 others were rescued in an accident at a tourist mine in the US state of Colorado, American media reported on Thursday (October 10). Dozens were trapped in the Mollie Kathleen gold mine in Cripple Creek before being rescued.

According to a report by CNN, eleven people were initially rescued, the rest later. Speaking to reporters, Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell said the mine experienced a mechanical problem with the elevator system Thursday afternoon, posing a major danger to participants.

The cause of the accident and information about the deceased person were not yet known.

Teller County Sheriff Mikesell told reporters that among those rescued were two children and four were being evaluated by medical personnel for minor injuries.

CNN reported that the dozen trapped people had water, blankets, chairs and a radio in frigid temperatures hovering around 50 degrees. However, no facilities such as toilets were available underground.

In a statement, Colorado Governor Jared Polis expressed his condolences to the victim’s family and friends.

Mikesell also said Thursday that the last time an accident occurred at the Mollie Kathleen gold mine was in 1986. The sheriff noted that the mine had been operated as a family-owned tourist attraction for well over 50 years.

After to the mine’s websitethe tour (through the facility) lasts one hour. “The tour itself is not claustrophobic, but the descent into the shaft is very tight for 2 minutes. You can do it,” the website says.

People are advised to leave backpacks, large items, large purses, pets and camera equipment behind when touring the mine.

(With contributions from agencies)