Collapse at Chile’s major copper mine kills 1 worker and leaves 5 missing
PBS NewsHourAUG 4
Chile: Five Miners Trapped in Collapsed Mine Found Dead
Above: Entrance to Codelco's El Teniente copper mine, near Rancagua, Chile, on Aug. 1, 2025. Image copyright: Raul Bravo/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
This is a tragic incident that highlights how natural seismic forces can overwhelm even the most advanced mining operations, particularly at depths of 500 meters, where such events are common. Codelco is doing everything possible to help reach the trapped workers as quickly as possible.
Narrative B
A few things don't add up in this deadly incident. Given that Chile is a mining country known for its seismic activity, it's a fact that its mines are engineered to withstand much stronger earthquakes than the relatively minor tremor that caused this collapse. Investigations may indicate design flaws or maintenance issues.