WEST MIAMI-DADE, FLA. (WSVN) – Several people have died after a pedestrian bridge under construction near Florida International University collapsed, according to officials.
Video first posted to Twitter, just before 2 p.m., shows the bridge on top of several cars on Southwest Eighth Street near 109th Avenue, Thursday, as police first responded to the scene.
The newly installed 950-ton pedestrian bridge serving Miami’s Florida International University collapsed crushing at least seven vehicles on a busy, multi-lane highway below.
Live television reports showed several people loaded onto ambulances immediately after the collapse. There was no immediate report of injuries or any fatalities from authorities.
THE FIU BRIDGE COLLAPSED OH MY GOD pic.twitter.com/JO7jfx5AoN
— Gabriela Collazo (@GabrielaRose12) March 15, 2018
Rescue teams were trying to reach anyone trapped beneath the flattened concrete.
The man part of the $14.2 million structure, which was only installed on Saturday, spanned 174 feet. It was built to provide access to the university over a seven-lane highway to newer dorms and off-campus housing.
FIU released a statement in response to the collapse, which reads, “We are shocked and saddened about the tragic events unfolding at the FIU-Sweetwater pedestrian bridge. At this time we are still involved in rescue efforts and gathering information. We are working closely with authorities and first responders on the scene. We will share updates as we have them.”
Gov. Rick Scott also said he is following the situation. “I have spoken with Miami-Dade County Police Chief Juan Perez about the pedestrian bridge collapse at FIU,” he wrote in a tweet. “I will be in constant communication with law enforcement throughout the day.”
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