Tour guide killed in Colorado mine accident identified

The man who died in a Colorado mine elevator accident was identified as 46-year-old Patrick Weier, a father and tour guide at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine near Cripple Creek. The accident occurred when the elevator was about 500 feet down a 1,000-foot deep shaft. Investigators are still trying to understand exactly what happened. The circumstances of Weier’s death were not disclosed, but officials believe it was due to a mechanical issue rather than a medical episode. The elevator was on its descent when the accident occurred, with 11 people on board including Weier. A total of 24 people were brought up from the mine after the incident. The mine, which had passed its safety inspections, is closed until further notice. Governor Jared Polis and the White House reached out following the incident to offer condolences. Teller County Commissioner Dan Williams emphasized the importance of mourning at this time. The mine expressed condolences to everyone involved and thanked emergency personnel for their response. The investigation into the accident involves the federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration and other agencies, along with the state safety inspections. Weier, who had a 7-year-old son, lived in the area and was well-known in the community. The exact cause of the accident is still being determined as authorities work to piece together the events that led to Weier’s tragic death.

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