(TheIndependentStar.com) – In a tragic development, three people were killed and four people were injured after a bridge collapsed in Mississippi.
The incident happened during demolition work on the Strong River bridge along State Route 149 in Simpson County.
The bridge had been closed to traffic since September 18 for a replacement project. It suddenly gave way while a work crew was preparing it for demolition.
The structure fell nearly 40 feet, killing three workers and seriously injuring four others. This catastrophic failure happened in the presence of a Department of Transportation inspector at the site, who escaped unharmed.
Governor Tate Reeves quickly acknowledged the tragedy on social media, highlighting the quick response of local and state resources.
Suspiciously, the construction company involved, T.L. Wallace Construction, has remained silent on the matter and declined to respond to inquiries.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg stated that the Federal Highway Administration is “engaging state officials concerning” the collapse. T
Additionally, the Mississippi Department of Transportation has promised to provide more information as it becomes available.
As the nation’s bridges and roads age, Americans must demand that government officials focus on essential improvements and strict safety protocols to prevent deaths.
The families of the victims and the people of Simpson County deserve answers and assurances that such a devastating event will not happen again.
A thorough investigation into this collapse would help reevaluate how to approach infrastructure projects to ensure the safety and well-being of American workers and communities.
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