Operator Error Identified as Cause of 2024 Colorado Gold Mine Fatality

Investigators conclude that the deadly elevator malfunction at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine was not due to equipment failure or unsafe practices.

The October 2024 incident at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine resulted in the accidental death of tour guide Patrick Weier and left 23 people temporarily trapped underground.
Authorities determined the cause of the elevator malfunction was operator error, ruling out equipment failure or non-compliance with safety regulations.
The mine was issued a cease-and-desist order following the incident, which has since been lifted after state inspections found no imminent or substantial danger to the public or employees.
Rescue operations lasted several hours, with trapped tourists provided supplies and safely brought to the surface using the repaired elevator system.
The mine, which has operated as a tourist destination for over 50 years, is permitted to reopen for the 2025 season, though no specific reopening date has been announced.