The close-knit community of Cripple Creek, Colorado, is grieving the sudden loss of Patrick Weier, a tour guide at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine. Weier’s death followed a mechanical malfunction during a routine tour, trapping tourists underground and leaving residents grappling with shock and sadness.

The incident, which remains under investigation, involved a malfunction of the mine’s elevator about 500 feet below the surface. The Teller County Sheriff’s Office reported that the elevator’s door was found crushed, but the sequence of events leading to the tragedy is still unclear. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has taken charge of the investigation.

A Tragedy Felt Across Small-Town Colorado

Weier’s passing struck a painful chord with residents of Cripple Creek and nearby Victor, where he lived with his young son. In a region where communities are small and deeply interconnected, his death is being felt as both a local and state tragedy.

• Cripple Creek has a population of around 1,200 people, while Victor’s population is under 400.
• Teller County leaders emphasized how personal the loss feels for such tight-knit communities.
• Colorado Governor Jared Polis personally reached out to the family, expressing his condolences.

“This loss isn’t just personal to us; it’s a loss for the state,” said Teller County Commissioner Dan Williams. “It’s a tragedy that touches every corner of our community.”

A Time for Mourning and Support

Sheriff Jason Mikesell urged the public to show compassion for Weier’s family, emphasizing that the 7-year-old son he leaves behind is now the focus of community support efforts. Weier’s brother, John Paul, launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist with the child’s needs, with the intention of supporting both his education and day-to-day living.

The fundraiser’s description reads, “These funds will directly support Patrick’s son, giving him the best start possible despite this tragedy.”

Mechanical Failures and Community Resilience

Residents are awaiting more answers about the elevator’s failure as OSHA investigates the malfunction that trapped tourists and claimed Weier’s life. The mine is a popular destination, drawing visitors eager to explore Colorado’s gold mining history. Now, it’s become a site of sorrow and reflection for those who knew and worked alongside Weier.

City leaders, including Cripple Creek Mayor Annie Durham, expressed how devastating the loss is for the community. “It’s hard to put into words,” she said. “Losing someone like Patrick hits us all. This is a small place where everyone knows everyone, and we lost one of our own.”