DENVER – The former Colorado gold mine where a tragic accident led to the death of a tour guide and tourists being trapped after an elevator malfunction has been ordered to cease operations while regulators review its safety procedures.
Regulatory Response
Following the incident on October 10, the Division of Reclamation, Mining and Safety conducted an inspection at the Mollie Kathleen Mine. The agency made the decision to close the mine in order to determine if the death of the tour guide, Patrick Weier, was a result of regulatory non-compliance.
The closure notice cited a regulation that allows the division to shut down a mine if there is an “imminent or substantial danger” to workers or the public. Additionally, the mine was already scheduled to close for the winter season.
Investigation and Closure
Authorities have not disclosed the exact cause of Patrick Weier’s death, but it is believed to be linked to a mechanical issue with the elevator. The mine’s inspection records prior to the incident indicated satisfactory compliance with safety regulations.
The Mollie Kathleen Mine is unique as it is the only tourist mine with a public elevator. During the incident, the elevator malfunctioned while descending into the mine, resulting in a group of tourists being trapped below ground.
Response and Ongoing Investigations
The Teller County Sheriff’s office and the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration are conducting investigations into the accident. The Department of Labor stated that the probe could take up to six months to complete.
The mining division expressed readiness to assist in the ongoing investigations to determine the cause of the elevator malfunction and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission.
Additional Insight:
As highlighted in the rewritten article, the closure of the Mollie Kathleen Mine underscores the importance of stringent safety regulations in tourist mines, particularly those with public elevators. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with such attractions and the need for thorough inspections and maintenance protocols to ensure visitor safety. The ongoing investigations by regulatory authorities signal a commitment to uncovering the root cause of the accident and implementing necessary measures to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
