In brief
Officials confirm the miners are safe in a refuge area while rescue operations continue.
Rescue teams in northern British Columbia are actively working to extricate three miners trapped underground after a significant collapse at the Red Chris mine, located on Tahltan Nation territory, approximately 260 miles (420 km) west of Fort Nelson. British Columbia Premier David Eby confirmed the incident, stating, "There was an accident," and reassuring that the miners are believed to be unharmed and sheltered in a safe refuge area.The mine's operator, Newmont Corp, reported that the collapse occurred near the miners' work area the day before. Fortunately, the trio—two from British Columbia and one from Ontario—managed to retreat to a secure section of the mine. However, a follow-up collapse subsequently obstructed their exit. This designated refuge area is equipped with sufficient food, water, and ventilation to allow for an extended stay until rescue efforts can be completed.Newmont added that when the first incident happened, the group of three employees relocated to the refuge station, safely distancing themselves from the immediate danger. Communication with the trapped miners has become limited due to the second collapse, leading the company to suspend all operations at the site to facilitate rescue activities. The Red Chris mine, where the accident occurred, has been operational since its construction in 2014 and primarily extracts copper and gold.
