"At the time of the initial incident, three business partner employees were working more than 500 meters beyond the affected zone and were asked to relocate to a designated refuge station before a subsequent fall of ground blocked the access way," Newmont wrote in a statement published on its website. 

Newmont stated that the refuge station is "equipped with adequate food, water, and ventilation" to support the three miners during an "extended stay." 

A second collapse blocked access and restricted communication, Newmont said, adding that operations at the gold and copper mine have been suspended to focus resources on the rescue effort. 

According to British Columbia's mining database, Red Chris received Mines Act and Environmental Management approvals in May 2012 and began regular production in mid-2015. The mine's current projected operational timeline is expected to continue through 2043. 

What you should know about Red Chris:

Strategic mine for Newmont: While not among Newmont's largest operations, Red Chris is part of its global portfolio and represents a foothold in Canada's mineral-rich British Columbia region.

Gold and Copper Production: The mine produces both gold and copper, which are critical metals in demand for both industrial and investment purposes. It produced nearly 40,000 ounces of gold in 2023.

Joint Venture Model: Newmont owns a 70% stake and operates the mine in partnership with Imperial Metals Corp.

Specialist teams from nearby mines are being assembled. Newmont has not provided a rescue timeline or indicated how long the refuge station can sustain the three miners.