Three people were killed, and three others were in critical condition after a Mississippi bridge collapsed Wednesday afternoon.

What you need to know:

The bridge collapse occurred over the Strong River along Highway 149.

Shortly before 3 p.m. Wednesday, officials from the Simpson County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call about a bridge collapse near the D’Lo water park.

When officials arrived, they discovered that a piece of equipment had failed, bringing the bridge down into the river below.

The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) reported that the bridge had been closed to traffic since September 18 due to a replacement project, and the collapse happened during demolition work by T.L. Wallace Construction.

All of the victims involved were employees of T.L. Wallace Construction.

Mississippi Department of Transportation information

In a post on social media, MDOT officials reported that an MDOT inspector was at the work site when the bridge collapsed and was unharmed.

Governor Tate Reeves responds 

Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves addressed the tragedy on social media platform X, offering prayers and condolences: “Please keep the families and coworkers of everyone involved in your prayers. Elee and I are praying hard for those affected by this tragic accident.”

Reeves also acknowledged the efforts of first responders from Simpson County and state agencies. Authorities will continue to provide updates as the situation develops.

First responders from Simpson SO, Simpson EMA, @MSEMA, and other state assets have been on the scene at the tragedy that has occurred at the bridge demolition near the Strong River on 149 in Simpson County.

As of this hour, we have confirmed multiple injuries and at least three…

— Governor Tate Reeves (@tatereeves) October 17, 2024