Mining accident leaves three laborers stranded beneath the surface at British Columbia's mine site
In the remote Stikine Region of northwest British Columbia, a rescue operation is underway for three workers who have been trapped underground at the Red Chris mine since Tuesday, July 22, 2025. The incident, caused by a "fall of ground" in an access way to an underground work area, has left the miners stranded, but fortunately, they are believed to be uninjured and located in a designated refuge station[1][2][3].
The mine's owner, U.S.-based Newmont Corporation, is collaborating with British Columbia's world-leading mining rescue teams to ensure a safe rescue for the workers[1][2]. After the initial cave-in, the miners—two from B.C. and one from Ontario—managed to contact the surface and relocate to the refuge station. However, a second cave-in cut off communications, leading to the temporary halt of mine operations to focus on rescue efforts[1][2].
The refuge station is well-equipped with food, water, and ventilation, ensuring the miners can remain safe for an extended period[1][2]. Rescue teams are actively exploring all technological and procedural methods to restore communication and safely bring the miners to the surface. The priority remains their safety, as well as the protection of emergency response personnel[1][2][4].
The incident has caused concern for the families, workers in the sector, and all British Columbians and Canadians. Premier David Eby has emphasized the expertise of B.C.’s rescue teams and the cooperation between Newmont and government agencies in managing this high-risk situation[1][2][4].
The B.C. Ministry of Transportation has expedited a permit for heavy equipment to be moved from the nearby Brucejack mine to aid in the extraction. Additionally, mining industry support, including supplies, equipment, and expertise, has been provided to assist with the situation[1][2].
Scott Dunbar, a professor at the University of British Columbia's Institute of Mining Engineering, stated that ground falls are hard to predict[5]. The cause of Tuesday's ground fall incidents remains unclear[1].
Mining Minister Jagrup Brar has dispatched a geotechnical inspector to the site to assist in the rescue, and the incident is causing widespread concern in the mining industry[1][2]. As the rescue operation continues, updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
[1] CBC News (2025). Three workers trapped at Red Chris mine in northwest B.C. after two cave-ins. [online] Available at:
[2] Global News (2025). Three workers trapped underground at Red Chris mine in northwest British Columbia following cave-in. [online] Available at:
[3] The Globe and Mail (2025). Three workers trapped underground at Red Chris mine in northwest B.C. [online] Available at:
[4] CTV News (2025). Three workers trapped underground at Red Chris mine in northwest B.C. [online] Available at:
[5] The Vancouver Sun (2025). Ground falls in mines are hard to predict, says UBC mining professor. [online] Available at:
- The incident at the Red Chris mine, involving three trapped workers, has raised concerns not just within the mining industry, but also among general-news outlets and the general public.
- Despite the unclear cause of the ground falls, the mining industry is providing support to the rescue efforts, offering supplies, equipment, and expertise.
