Three rescued miners healthy, in good spirits after two days trapped underground

Three workers have returned to the surface after spending more than two days trapped underground at the Red Chris mine in northwestern B.C.

The mine’s operator, Newmont, said in an early morning statement that the three workers were safely brought out a little after 10:30 p.m. Thursday.

“We are relieved to share that all three individuals are safe, and in good health and spirits. They had consistent access to food, water, and ventilation while they remained in place in a refuge chamber underground over the last two days,” said the statement.

The workers were identified as Kevin Coumbs from Ontario, Darien Maduke from B.C., and Jesse Chubaty from Manitoba. All three work for B.C.-based company Hy-Tech Drilling.

The president of Hy-Tech Drilling described the moment the three emerged from underground as “euphoric.” He said everyone is thankful for the positive outcome.

“Kevin, Darien and Jesse demonstrated the utmost dedication to our safety procedures, adhering to protocols for more than 60 hours underground. We will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incident and will share the lessons learned transparently across the industry,” said Newmont.

Clip from Hy-Tech Drilling president Dwayne Ross:

Clip from Newmont’s Bernard Wessels:

Reporter voicer:

Bernard Wessels, global group head for health, safety and security at Newmont, said the workers were in good spirits and told rescuers they were able to catch up on sleep during their time underground.

He said the workers will be spending time with their families and counselling will be available to them.

Newmont had said the workers were trapped after two “fall of ground” incidents Tuesday morning at the porphyry copper-gold mine, about 18 kilometres southeast of Iskut.

It estimated the debris blocking access to the refuge chamber where the workers were sheltering was up to 30 metres long and eight metres high.

The three workers were able to shelter in a refuge chamber with enough food, water and air to support 16 people for up to 48 hours.

Newmont said around 8:30 p.m. Thursday, a remote-controlled scoop was able to clear enough fallen debris to allow rescuers to advance through the tunnel. They found the three workers in stable condition and were able to return them to the surface using protective equipment.

“This outcome is the result of tireless collaboration, technical expertise, and above all, safety and care. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the rescue teams and all those involved, and to Kevin, Darien, and Jesse as they recover from this experience,” said the company.

Newmont has said it will launch a thorough investigation into the incident.

Wessels said there had not previously been other fall of ground incidents in the area “to the same extent” as Tuesday’s incidents.

Operations at the mine’s underground project are paused during the investigation, while the open pit operations were not interrupted.

Jagrup Brar, Minister of Mining and Critical Minerals, has released the following statement on the successful rescue:

“Today, we breathe a collective sigh of relief and express our profound thanks in celebration of the rescue and safe return of the three workers at Red Chris mine. After a fall-of-ground incident on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, these men spent more than two days in an underground refuge station before being safely extracted late last night.

“I want to commend the many agencies, organizations, companies and individuals who pulled together in the face of this challenge, the mine rescue teams, Newmont, the Tahltan Nation, industry and government. Your decisive action and collaborative work around the clock helped ensure the best possible outcome in the face of this emergency.

“Earlier this year, I participated in the mine rescue competition, meeting the incredible men and women who are responsible for coming to the rescue in events like these. I was able to see first-hand their incredible skills and dedication in action. Our province is well served by such courageous professionals.

“This is a proud day for our province, and I am so happy to know that Kevin, Darien and Jesse are healthy and well and are safely back with their families.

“As we move forward, we reflect on the impact of this incident and the lessons we can glean from it. The ministry’s chief inspector has begun an investigation, the results of which will be made public, and I know that Newmont will also be conducting its own investigation.

“Thanks once again to everyone involved, and I wish Kevin, Darien and Jesse all the best and a happy reunion with their families and loved ones.”