Mine Owner: They're Probably Dead

The trapped Utah miners are most likely dead, and their bodies may never be recovered, mine owner Robert Murray acknowledged to bereaved family members last night. Following the death of three rescuers—and a report from mining experts concluding that further attempts would be an unacceptable risk—underground rescue efforts have been suspended indefinitely.

Experts concluded that the mine is "structurally unstable," and would remain that way for some time, the Salt Lake Tribune reports. In addition, they said underground rescue attempts weren't warranted, given the lack of any sign the men are alive. Family members were not happy. "My brother is trapped underground and I'm hearing that they're basically giving up and that's unacceptable," said the brother of one of the miners. (More mine collapse stories.)