Hecla Mining Company ("Hecla") (NYSE:HL) is saddened by the news that Brandon Lloyd Gray, the 26-year-old miner critically injured at its Lucky Friday mine in North Idaho on November 17, succumbed to his injuries early Saturday morning with his family at his side. Gray, a miner since 2008, had been working for Cementation Inc. since February 2011, a company that is under contract for the construction of the mine's #4 Shaft.

"We are deeply saddened by Brandon's passing," said Phil Baker, President and Chief Executive Officer. "Everyone at Hecla extends our sincere condolences to his family and loved ones."

Mike Nadon, President of Cementation U.S.A. said, "The whole Cementation family is grieving this terrible loss, and our immediate focus is in supporting Brandon's family with our assistance and our prayers."

Immediately following the accident, Hecla chose to cease mining operations at the Lucky Friday mine in order to focus our attention on the emergency response and to provide support to the affected employees and families of both Hecla and Cementation. The federal Mine Safety and Health Administration ("MSHA") subsequently issued a 103(j) order. An integrated team of Hecla and Cementation as well as representatives from MSHA are investigating the accident, which is unrelated to the fall of ground accident that occurred on April 15,, 2011. A start-up date for resuming operations has not yet been established.

"Hecla is committed to preventing such accidents from happening," added Phil Baker, President and Chief Executive Officer. "We will continue to emphasize safety throughout all of our properties."

For further information, please contact:

Mélanie Hennessey           Direct Main: 800-HECLA91 (800-432-5291)
Vice President - Investor Relations

Email: hmc-info@hecla-mining.com

Direct: 604-694-7729

Website: www.hecla-mining.com

 
Hecla Canada Ltd. Hecla Mining Company
400 - 580 Hornby Street 6500 N. Mineral Drive, Suite 200
Vancouver, British Columbia Coeur d'Alene, Idaho 83815
V6C 3B6 Canada

Hecla Mining Company
Mélanie Hennessey, Vice President ? Investor Relations, 604-694-7729
Direct Main: 800-HECLA91 (800-432-5291)
Email: hmc-info@hecla-mining.com
Website: www.hecla-mining.com