Bridge Collapse in Brazil's Tocantins-Maranhão Region Kills One, Injures Several; 2 Missing, 3 Trucks Fell, Sulfuric Acid Spill

Dec 22, 2024, 09:40 PM

On December 22, 2024, the Juscelino Kubitschek de Oliveira Bridge, which connects the states of Tocantins and Maranhão in Brazil, collapsed while vehicles were crossing, resulting in at least one confirmed death and multiple injuries. The bridge, measuring 533 meters, gave way suddenly, causing three trucks to fall into the Tocantins River. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the bridge's structural issues had been previously noted. Emergency services confirmed one fatality and reported that two individuals were rescued, while several others remain unaccounted for. The incident has raised concerns regarding infrastructure safety in the region, especially as it occurred shortly after a video was recorded by a local councilor highlighting the bridge's deteriorating condition. Additionally, it was reported that two of the fallen trucks were carrying sulfuric acid, leading to environmental concerns due to the potential spill into the river. The Federal Highway Police and local authorities are currently conducting search and rescue operations for those missing.