Official report from the National Department of Transport Infrastructure or Federal Police

Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge Collapse Over Tocantins River Kills Four, 13 Missing

Dec 24, 2024, 03:30 PM

A bridge collapse in Brazil has resulted in at least four deaths and 13 people missing. The incident occurred on Sunday when the Juscelino Kubitschek bridge, spanning the Tocantins River and connecting the states of Maranhão and Tocantins, partially collapsed. The collapse led to the fall of four trucks, three cars, and three motorcycles into the river. Two of the trucks were carrying 76 tons of sulfuric acid, complicating rescue efforts due to the risk of toxic contamination. The Brazilian government has initiated an investigation into the causes and responsibilities of the collapse, with the National Department of Transport Infrastructure (Dnit) opening a formal inquiry. The Federal Police are also investigating potential criminal liabilities and environmental damage caused by the chemical spill. The Ministry of Transport has announced plans to contract a new company to design and construct a replacement bridge, expected to be completed within 12 months. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has expressed condolences to the victims' families and committed federal government support for the emergency response and investigation.