BOISE, Idaho — One miner was missing and a rescue operation was under way today after a collapse at a mine in northern Idaho.
Hecla Mining Company President Phil Baker said the collapse occurred “at the 6,150-foot level” at the Lucky Friday Mine on Friday near two workers. One worker escaped but officials have not been able to contact the other miner.
The missing miner’s name was not released.
Bakers said an extensive rescue operation was under way at the site in Mullan, Idaho, which included unspecified equipment being brought in from outside the state.
“We’re securing the ground as we go,” Baker said. ” We’re doing everything we can to reach the employee.”
On its web site, Hecla describes itself as the oldest U.S.-based precious metals mining company in North America and the largest silver producer in the U.S. It is headquartered in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
Hecla currently produces silver from two mines, Greens Creek and Lucky Friday, according to the site. (AP)
