SIMPSON COUNTY, Miss. (WJTV) – Authorities released additional information about Wednesday’s fatal bridge collapse in Simpson County.
Three survivors are in serious condition at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in Jackson. Another person, who was injured, was treated at the scene on Wednesday.
Simpson County Coroner identified the three victims who died as Kevin Malone, Charles Ingleharte, and Charles Badger.
According to officials with the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT), the Strong River bridge on State Route 149 has been closed to traffic since September 18 as part of a bridge replacement project. They said T.L. Wallace, the contractor for the project, was in the process of demolishing the bridge.
Albert White, the District 7 engineer for MDOT, said he’s never seen anything to this magnitude in his 26 year of experience.
“Something of this level with as many people involved, it’s different. It’s not something that happens every day. And thankfully, it doesn’t. But again, we just pray that everybody remembers them and lift them up because we know God, only through Christ, can we have hope and healing,” said White.
T.L. Wallace released a statement through MDOT about the collapse.
The circumstances surrounding this tragic incident are currently under investigation by local authorities. T.L. Wallace Construction, Inc., is fully cooperating with the investigation to understand how this tragedy occurred.
At this time, we ask for prayers and support for the families and loved ones of the deceased. Our hearts go out to them during this incredibly difficult time. T.L. Wallace Construction, Inc., is committed to providing assistance to the families as they navigate through this unimaginable loss.
As a local business, we deeply feel the impact of this tragedy within our community. We encourage everyone to come together in support of those affected, honoring the memory of our dear friends and colleagues.
T.L. Wallace Construction, Inc.
At this time, the cause of the collapse is unknown. The bridge replacement project will remain on hold until the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) takes a thorough look into what caused the collapse.
