New $14 million pedestrian bridge collapses in US, at least 6 people dead
A pedestrian bridge near Florida International University collapsed onto the road below, crushing eight cars and killing between six and eight people.
| Rescuers try to reach the victims |
A newly opened pedestrian bridge collapsed on one of the busiest roads in South Florida on March 15, killing between six and 10 people. At least eight vehicles were crushed by the 950-ton bridge, and many people were taken to the hospital.CBSquoted US Senator Bill Nelson said.
"We are drilling holes into the wreckage to look for victims inside," Miami-Dade Fire Chief Paul Estopian said. Witnesses said the incident happened at 1:30 p.m., when vehicles were stopped at a red light.
Police ordered television helicopters to leave the area to listen for sounds of victims under the collapsed bridge. The search for victims was hampered by the partial collapse of the bridge, which could endanger the lives of rescuers.
|
Rescuers are searching for victims below. Photo:Reuters. |
The $14.2 million, 175-foot-long pedestrian bridge, which connects Florida International University with the city of Sweetwater, was installed last weekend. Contractors say the bridge can withstand a Category 5 hurricane and has a lifespan of more than 100 years.
White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders said President Donald Trump was aware of the bridge collapse and would coordinate government resources to assist if needed. Mr. Trump also thanked the rescuers who bravely worked in the dangerous area to save the victims.
