Rescuers have found eight survivors five days after a mine collapse in east China's Shandong Province, rescuers confirmed Wednesday.

The gypsum mine accident happened at 8 p.m. Friday in Pingyi County. At the time, 29 people were working underground. One is confirmed dead, four escaped, and seven have been rescued, so far.

Rescuers found signs of life on Wednesday morning. They have contacted the eight miners and are trying to send them provisions.

The rescue has been obstructed by the structural instability of the tunnel and falling debris. Holes have been drilled into the ground so that life detectors can be lowered into the pit.

The owner of the mine drowned himself when working with the rescue team early Sunday morning.

The cause of the accident is still to be confirmed.