A bridge collapse in Mississippi on Wednesday (October 16) resulted in the death of three people and left four others seriously injured. The bridge, located on State Route 149 over the Strong River in Simpson County, was in the process of being demolished when it collapsed prematurely, according to the Mississippi Department of Transportation. The bridge had been closed to traffic since September 18 as part of a bridge replacement project.
The victims were part of a seven-man crew using heavy machinery to tear down the bridge when it gave way, plummeting nearly 40 feet. Simpson County Coroner Terry Tutor confirmed to USA Today that three of the men died, and four were injured. The injured workers are reported to be in critical condition.
Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves confirmed the fatalities and injuries in a statement shared on social media. "We have confirmed multiple injuries and at least three fatalities from the accident. As the situation develops, authorities will provide more information while respecting the privacy of the bereaved," Reeves said.
He urged people to keep the families and coworkers of everyone involved in their prayers.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said on social media that the Federal Highway Administration was “engaging state officials concerning” the fatal accident.
The cause of the collapse remains unclear as of Thursday morning.