Bridge Collapses Ahead of Demolition, Killing 3

A tragic incident unfolded in Mississippi as a bridge collapsed, claiming three lives and highlighting the perils of aging infrastructure.

At a Glance

Three workers died, and four were injured when the bridge collapsed during demolition preparations.
The bridge was located over the Strong River on State Route 149 in Simpson County.
The bridge had been closed for a replacement project since September 18.
A Department of Transportation inspector was present on-site but unharmed.

Fatal Bridge Collapse

In Mississippi, a bridge collapse resulted in the deaths of three individuals and injuries to four others during demolition preparations. The site, located on State Route 149 over the Strong River in Simpson County, became a scene of tragedy as the structure unexpectedly fell nearly 40 feet with seven workers present. This rural location is about 40 miles south of Jackson, Mississippi, in a county with around 26,000 residents.

The bridge had been closed since September 18 for a planned replacement project. Tragically, during these preparations, the collapse occurred, marking a fatal turn for the project. Authorities received reports of the collapse, and emergency services responded promptly to the scene.

Safety and Protocol Concerns

A Department of Transportation inspector was on-site during the incident but fortunately remained unharmed. Authorities are now investigating to determine the cause of the collapse, reviewing the safety protocols and inspections in place at the time. In these precarious situations, ensuring rigorous safety standards is imperative to prevent further tragedies.

“Sadly, there were fatalities as a result of the accident, and we extend our deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones,” the department stated.

BREAKING: At least three people died and four were injured after a Mississippi bridge — in the process of being demolished — collapsed while work was being conducted at the site, authorities said. https://t.co/B79aRE4uea

— The Associated Press (@AP) October 16, 2024

Response and Investigation

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg commented on the incident, stating that the Federal Highway Administration is “engaging state officials concerning” what happened. The construction company involved, T.L. Wallace Construction, has not responded to inquiries since the incident, adding an air of silence to the unfolding investigation.

Buttigieg added, “Our thoughts are with the workers who were injured and lost their lives, and with their families.”

The identities of the workers and their employer remain undisclosed. The Mississippi Department of Transportation has confirmed this as a work site accident and committed to providing more information as it becomes available.