Patrick Weier, a 46-year-old father and tour guide at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine in Colorado, died in a tragic elevator accident as the elevator was about 500 feet down a 1,000-foot shaft. The circumstances of his death are still being investigated, with officials unsure if the elevator dropped or bounced. The elevator was in descent at the time of the accident, and it is believed that the cause was a mechanical issue rather than a medical episode. Weier leaves behind a 7-year-old son and lived in a small community in the area.
In total, 24 people were in the mine at the time of the accident, with 11 on the elevator with Weier and the rest at the 1,000-foot level. The mine, which has passed safety inspections, is currently closed until further notice. The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration and other agencies are also investigating the incident. Governor Jared Polis and the White House have extended their condolences to Weier’s family and the community.
Sheriff Jason Mikesell called the accident “very tragic” and noted that they are working to understand exactly what happened at 500 feet. The community is mourning the loss of Weier and sending prayers and condolences to all those involved in the accident.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com