Worker killed at Cariboo Gold project in central B.C.

A contract worker has died following a workplace incident at Osisko Development’s Cariboo Gold Project in central British Columbia.

The company reported on Thursday that the worker was on the surface at the mine development site when what it described as an “isolated incident” occurred and the contractor “suffered a fatal injury.”

In a written statement, Osisko Development CEO Sean Roosen said the company has informed authorities and paused operations at the project while investigations are carried out.

“We are deeply saddened by this tragic accident and extend our heartfelt condolences and support to our colleague's family, friends and co-workers during this difficult time,” Roosen said. “The health, safety and well-being of all employees and contractors working at the Project is our highest priority."

The company did not release further details about the nature of the work being performed at the time of the incident or the specific circumstances that led to the fatality.

The Cariboo Gold Project is in the startup phase of building a new underground mine in a region that was part of the original Cariboo gold rush in the latter half of the 19th century.

According to company filings, Osisko expects the mine to produce up to 1.1 million tonnes of gold-bearing ore a year over more than a decade of operation. The project is projected to employ upwards of 500 people once it reaches full scale, according to a CBC report.