At least one person has lost their life, and 12 others are trapped in an abandoned gold mine in Colorado due to a malfunction of equipment, according to officials.

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The trapped individuals are part of a group of tourists who are stranded near the base of the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine in Cripple Creek.

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“There is an elevator issue to resolve before they could be brought up,” Sheriff Jason Mike told reporters.

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The mine has served as a popular tourist destination for more than 50 years.

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Visitors typically embark on a one-hour tour that descends 1,000 feet (305 metres) down the shaft into the southwestern side of Pikes Peak, as detailed on the tour company's website.

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Emergency responders have successfully rescued 11 individuals, with at least four suffering from minor injuries.

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According to Sheriff Mike, officials are maintaining constant communication with the 12 people who remain trapped.

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“They have chairs, blankets, and water and are at a safe temperature,” he said. “This was due to an equipment malfunction. The mine did not collapse. ”

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Colorado Governor Jared Polis said state resources had been allocated to assist with the rescue efforts.

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“We will do everything possible and assist the county to ensure a speedy and safe resolution of the situation,” Governor Polis said.

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According to the tour company’s website, entering the mine is comparable to riding in a lift.

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The ride itself takes two minutes at a speed of 500 ft per minute (roughly 5 mph).

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