Sat Oct 12 13:40:00 UTC 2024: ## Colorado Mine Elevator Accident Claims the Life of Tour Guide
**CRIPPLE CREEK, CO** – A 46-year-old tour guide, Patrick Weier, lost his life in a tragic elevator accident at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine near Cripple Creek on Thursday. The incident occurred around noon as the elevator was descending approximately 500 feet into the 1,000-foot deep shaft.
Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell described the event as a “very tragic accident” and confirmed that Weier, a father of a 7-year-old son, was killed due to a mechanical issue with the elevator, rather than a medical episode. The exact circumstances of the accident are still under investigation.
Initial reports suggested the elevator experienced a “drop,” but officials are unsure if it dropped or bounced. The lack of a camera in the small elevator is hindering the investigation.
Besides Weier, 23 other individuals were safely brought to the surface following the accident. Eleven were on the elevator at the time of the incident, while a group of 12 tourists and another guide were at the 1,000-foot level and were subsequently brought up in multiple elevator trips.
The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine has confirmed the tragic event on its website and expressed condolences to all involved. The mine is currently closed until further notice.
Authorities, including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), are investigating the incident. The state of Colorado also conducts safety inspections of the elevator, and officials confirmed that the elevator had passed its most recent inspection.
Governor Jared Polis has extended his condolences to the family of Patrick Weier, while the White House has also reached out following the incident.
Local officials are urging the community to focus on mourning the loss of Mr. Weier during this difficult time.
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