1 dead and 12 others trapped underground in Colorado gold mine, officials say

One person is dead and a dozen others remain trapped underground after an equipment failure in a Colorado gold mine, officials said.

The individuals were part of a tour group and became stuck near the bottom of Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine in Cripple Creek around noon MDT on Thursday, according to officials.

Teller Counter Sheriff Jason Mikesell said one person had died in the incident, and that 12 people are still stuck in the mine shaft.

Eleven others have been rescued so far, he said, including two children.

Officials said there were injuries. Local hospital UCHealth said they had received six patients, three of whom have already been treated and released.

Mikesell said the 12 still stuck underground are all safe, and hopes they can get them out tonight. One of them is a worker, he added.

Elevator and mine safety experts are on site to inspect the elevator's safety before it is used to bring those trapped up to ground level, according to Mikesell

"What I want to make sure before we bring up an elevator with people on it, is that it's safe, that this vehicle is safe for them to get to the surface," the sheriff said.

"We also have other plans in case of an issue -- including ropes teams," Mikesell added.

There is no concern about oxygen running out, he said, adding that they have water, chairs and blankets and are able to communicate with rescuers.

The mine, which is about 1,000 feet deep, is a popular tourist destination.

They haven't had an incident like this since 1986, Mikesell said.

Multiple agencies, including search and rescue teams, are responding to the incident with heavy equipment.

In a statement, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis said he was monitoring the situation and sending state resources to assist in rescue efforts.

"I have spoken to the Teller County Sheriff and County Commissioners and will stay in touch through the course of this rescue effort," Polis said. "The state is assisting Teller County and sending resources to rescue those inside the mine."

"We will do everything possible and assist the county to ensure a speedy and safe resolution of the situation," Polis added.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.