Authorities in Colorado have confirmed the identity of the person who tragically died at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, a former gold mine turned tourist attraction. The victim, Patrick Weier, was serving as a tour guide when he became trapped underground due to an elevator malfunction.
This incident occurred on a Thursday, and Weier was unable to escape after being trapped for several hours, raising significant concerns about safety at the popular site.
The elevator malfunction occurred around noon while a group of tourists was visiting the mine near Cripple Creek. According to Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell, the mechanical issues created a “severe danger” for those involved.
At the time of the malfunction, the elevator was approximately 1,000 feet deep, and 11 people were initially rescued using a trolley system. Among these were two children and four individuals who sustained minor injuries. However, Weier and 12 others remained trapped for about six hours until help arrived.
During a news conference, Sheriff Mikesell confirmed that the other trapped individuals sustained only minor injuries, which was a small relief amidst the tragedy.
Tragedy Strikes as Tour Guide Dies in Elevator Malfunction at Colorado Gold Mine
He expressed the deep impact of the event on the tight-knit community of Teller County, which has a population of around 30,000 people. The sheriff emphasized the loss felt in the community, particularly for Weier’s family, as they navigate this difficult time after the accident.
An investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the elevator malfunction. Mikesell indicated that the issue arose about 500 feet down the mine, involving the elevator doors.
However, specifics regarding the malfunction are still unclear, with authorities unable to confirm whether the elevator had dropped or become stuck. Mikesell noted that the elevators at the mine have limited space, accommodating only four to six people at a time, which added to the urgency of the situation.
In the wake of this tragic event, tributes have been pouring in for Patrick Weier, who is remembered as a loving father to his seven-year-old son.
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to assist in securing a future for his son, with his brother expressing gratitude for the support and kindness shown during this challenging time. Friends and family have taken to social media to honor Weier, describing him as a “hero” and a “light in a dark, dark world,” emphasizing the profound loss felt by those who knew him.
