‘This is a Colorado tragedy’: Procession Thursday for employee who lost his life in mine malfunction

CRIPPLE CREEK, Colo. (KKTV) - As an investigation continues into what caused a malfunction at a gold mine in Cripple Creek , which left tourists trapped 1,000 feet underground for several hours , the community is mourning the loss of an employee killed in the incident.

Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine tour guide Patrick Weier was on the elevator when what officials believe was a mechanical issue occurred 500 feet belowground. What exactly transpired is still under investigation; the Teller County Sheriff's Office says there was a crushed door, but they are unsure exactly what happened after that. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is leading the probe into the incident.

It's also unclear exactly what led up to Weier's death, but city and county leaders say his loss is felt deeply. Weier worked in Cripple Creek and lived a short distance away in Victor.

"Cripple Creek is a very small community and a very tight knit community, and we did lose one of our own yesterday," said Cripple Creek Mayor Annie Durham. "And so it's, it's - it's devastating to the community."

"The community that the gentleman came from was less than 400 people in it," Teller County Commissioner Dan Williams said. "These neighboring towns of Cripple Creek have about 1,200 people in [them], if you let that sink in for a minute. This is a county tragedy. This is a Colorado tragedy. [Colorado Gov.] Jared Pollis talked about it to [Teller County Sheriff] Jason and I several times yesterday, calling the victim's family. This is a big deal, but it's really a big deal for our county. Somebody once wrote there's a time for everything out of the sun and there's a time for mourning."

"We lost a local person in our community who will be missed," said Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell. "... We ask that you just have compassion with the gentleman and his family. He is survived by a 7-year-old child."

Thursday, the community is coming together to honor Weier's memory with a procession.

"We will have some of the donkeys participating, as well as the color guard," Durham told 11 News. "We are really just asking and inviting anyone who wants to join the possession to come join us.

"It was actually the family that made the suggestion, understanding that this is a community loss as well. I deeply, deeply appreciate their willingness to allow this opportunity. It was really important for them, knowing how much love that this community has for Patrick, that they be able to share it. And come together, so it's really to honor Patrick."

Staging for the procession begins at 9:30, and the procession itself starts at 10 a.m. on Carr Avenue, next to the Cripple Creek & Victor Narrow Gauge Railroad.

"The procession will go west up Bennett Avenue and conclude at Cripple Creek City Park at 128 E. Bennett Ave. Community members will have the opportunity to share their favorite memories of Weier following the procession," the city of Cripple Creek said in a news release.

Weier's brother John Paul has started a GoFundMe to help support the family, specifically Weier's 7-year-old son.

"We have created this GoFundMe to raise funds that will go directly towards supporting his future whether it's for his education basic needs or anything that will help give him the best start in life despite this tragedy," the fundraiser description reads in part.

if you wish to donate.

for 11 News' previous coverage on the incident.