A robotic camera was put down the fourth of seven holes bored into the mountain over the weekend but quickly became stuck in mud and could not be retrieved from the hole.
Stickler said MSHA and other mine safety officials had exhausted all known options in the attempt to reach the miners trapped after the accident on August 6.
"Unfortunately, our hopeful efforts have resulted in no signs of life from these miners," he said.
"Sadly, there is no remaining hope of finding these miners alive. The thoughts and prayers of the dedicated professionals at MSHA are with the families of these fallen miners.”
MSHA will now begin its investigation into the cause of the first mine collapse that trapped Kerry Allred, Manuel Sanchez, Louis Hernandez, Carlos Payan, Don Erickson and Brandon Phillips.
Three MSHA rescue workers - Gary Jensen, Brandon Kimber and Dale Ray Black - were killed in a second collapse on August 16.
US President George Bush yesterday offered condolences to the families of the Utah miners.
"Last night, a difficult decision was made to end the search. Laura and I are deeply saddened by this tragedy and continue to pray for the families of these men," Bush said.
