Ouray County Mine Accident Update: 4:15 p.m.

Media Release from Ouray County, Colorado Public Information Officer Team

At approximately 7:20 a.m. this morning, the Ouray County sheriff received a call from 911 dispatch that there was an incident at the Revenue Virginius mine requiring response.

The Sheriff’s office, along with Ouray Fire District, and Ouray County EMS responded. At this time, we can report that 20 people were taken to various hospitals in the region. We do not have any updated information about the condition of those 20 miners, nor identities of those miners, but some have been treated and released.

A rescue was initiated for two miners who remained underground. Unfortunately, they have both been confirmed as fatalities at the site by the County Coroner. Their identities have not been confirmed pending notification of family members. Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is involved and on-site.

As we have additional information, we will provide updates. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of all those who were involved in this tragic accident.

Press contact: Marti Whitmore 303-886-0597