Major rescue underway as three miners take refuge underground at Red Chris mine

A major rescue operation is underway in British Columbia after three miners became trapped underground at the Red Chris copper and gold mine, following two rockfall incidents that blocked access routes to their location.

British Columbia Premier David Eby confirmed the accident on Wednesday(July 23) at the close of a premiers’ meeting in Huntsville, Ontario, saying the miners are believed to be uninjured and are currently sheltering in a designated underground refuge station.

Two of the trapped workers are from British Columbia and one is from Ontario. They are contractors, according to Nolan Paquette of United Steelworkers Local 1-1937, who said they are currently located on the opposite side of the collapse.

Dual rockfalls complicated rescue

Newmont Corporation, the majority owner of the Red Chris mine, confirmed that two separate “fall of ground” incidents occurred on Tuesday morning. The workers had initially relocated to one of several underground refuge stations after the first rockfall, more than 500 meters beyond the impacted zone. A second collapse later blocked their escape route and restricted communication.

In a statement, Newmont said contact was initially established with the miners following the first incident, and the workers confirmed they were safe in the refuge bay, which is equipped with adequate supplies and ventilation systems to support an extended stay.

Provincial response and industry support

BC Mining Minister Jagrup Brar said the government has dispatched a geotechnical inspector of mines to the site and is working closely with Newmont to coordinate the rescue.

The Ministry of Transportation also expedited a special permit to allow the rapid transfer of heavy equipment from the nearby Brucejack mine to aid the effort.

Premier Eby said he had briefed Ontario Premier Doug Ford and emphasized interprovincial collaboration to support the situation. “It’s very concerning for the families, the workers, and Canadians across the country. Our thoughts are with them and our appreciation is with the incredibly brave rescue teams working right now.”

About the Red Chris Mine

The Red Chris mine is located in British Columbia’s remote northern Interior, roughly 1,700 kilometers northwest of Vancouver. It is jointly owned by Newmont Corporation, which holds a 70 percent stake, and Imperial Metals Corporation.

Originally an open-pit mine, Red Chris began development of underground block-cave mining in 2019. The method, widely used in large-scale operations, allows for the bulk extraction of lower-grade ore and is known to extend the life of aging open-pit operations.

Looking ahead

Officials say the priority remains the safe retrieval of the workers, with mining rescue specialists working against the clock. The refuge stations are designed to sustain life for several days, giving rescuers valuable time to strategize a secure access route.

This is a developing story. More details will be provided as they become available.