Burnsville, NC – A K-9 was safely rescued from an abandoned mine shaft after a coordinated effort involving multiple emergency response agencies in Yancey and Mitchell counties, officials said.
The rescue took place Friday after the K-9 fell into the abandoned shaft, prompting a technical rescue operation involving specialized personnel and local first responders.

Multi-agency team carried out rescue
According to the Yancey County Sheriff’s Office, deputies worked alongside Yancey County Emergency Management, the Burnsville Volunteer Fire Department, and a technical rescue team from Mitchell County to reach and recover the trapped dog.
After a coordinated operation, rescuers successfully brought the K-9 back to the surface.
Officials said the dog was not seriously injured during the incident.

Sheriff’s office praises teamwork
The Yancey County Sheriff’s Office thanked all of the agencies that responded, citing their quick action and cooperation.
“This incident is another example of what can be accomplished when neighboring agencies work together toward a common goal,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.
Authorities did not release additional details about how the K-9 fell into the abandoned mine shaft or whether the dog has returned to duty.