Three contractors working for Hy-Tech Drilling were safely rescued from the Red Chris gold and copper mine in northern British Columbia after being trapped underground for over two days. The accident occurred on July 23, 2025 when a localized ground fall occurred. This took place early on a Monday morning, right after the contractors came onto their work shift. Newmont Corp., the mine’s operator and majority owner, had a critical role in the rescue operation—something an industry report on the disaster did not mention.
On July 22, 2025, at 6 a.m., Kevin Coumbs, Darien Maduke, and Jesse Chubaty commenced their work at the mine. At 7:47 a.m. on July 23, a localized ground fall trapped the contractors underground. Luckily, after the crash, they were still able to get to a refuge station. Newmont went on to say that the contractors were in radio contact with teammates, which ensured that those who fell were safe following the fall.
Ground Fall Incident and Initial Response
Her unease quickly became a full-blown nightmare. At 10 a.m. on July 23, B.C. Premier David Eby announced that the three contractors were presumed deceased. Newmont quickly launched an emergency response, using drones to check the underground conditions. The landscape assessment had turned up a world-class dump site. It measures 20-30 metres in length and seven-eight meters in height, entirely sealing off any possible access to the trapped workers.
Compounding the challenge, a second and larger ground fall occurred at 10:30 a.m., cutting off communication with the contractors. Global safety chief for Newmont, Bernard Wessels, sought to lay concerns to rest. He assured them that the natural flow of air hit the pocket where the workers were trapped, giving us much needed hope for their survival during this tense situation.
Rescue Operation and Successful Outcome
Once the challenges were identified, Newmont brought in an international rescue team with the sole purpose of getting to the trapped contractors. The operation was described as a “carefully planned and meticulously executed rescue.” After enduring lengthy hours of uncertainty, the rescue team successfully brought Coumbs, Maduke, and Chubaty to the surface at 10:50 p.m. on July 24, 2025.
Watching them to safety and the great relief of their families was a great moment. It elevated the entire community that lives around the Red Chris mine. Newmont Corp., municipal officials, and local first responders made tremendous efforts to address the emergency. Their incredible efforts demonstrated how important it is to be prepared and to work together.
