Worker dies at Gibraltar copper mine near Williams Lake

A contract worker has died at the Gibraltar copper mine northeast of Wiliams Lake, the mine’s operator confirmed Friday, Nov. 21. An accident took place at the mine Friday resulting in the death of one worker, with no further injuries reported, Taseko Mines confirmed in a press release. The incident occurred in an active mining area and was discovered around 5 p.m. Taseko said the accident site has been secured and mining activity has been halted while an investigation is underway. RCMP and the BC Coroners Service are currently on-site. The BC Ministry of Mining and Critical Minerals has also been notified. “We are saddened to report the loss of a valued colleague at Gibraltar, and offer our deepest condolences to affected family, co-workers and friends,” Taseko vice-president of corporate affairs Sean Magee said. “Our primary concern is the health, safety and well-being of our employees. Accordingly, we have halted all activity at Gibraltar until the accident can be fully investigated, and will make counselling and support services available to Gibraltar employees affected by this tragic event.” Gibraltar personnel are cooperating fully with the investigation, Taseko said. This is the second death at a B.C. mine in as many days. A 39-year-old Hosmer, B.C. resident was confirmed dead by RCMP following an indicent at the Elkview Operations mine in Sparwood early Thursday morning, Nov. 20.