Local News
Victims identified: Three T.L. Wallace Construction crew members killed in Simpson County bridge collapse
The cause of the collapse is currently under investigation.
UPDATE: Columbia, MS – October 16, 2024 – T.L. Wallace Construction, Inc., is devastated to confirm the tragic death of three (3) of our dedicated employees at a construction site in Simpson County, MS on October 16, 2024.
The individuals who lost their lives, Charles Badger, Kevin Malone, and Charles Igleharte were cherished members of our community and our team. Their friendships will never be forgotten.
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.
A tragic bridge collapse occurred on Wednesday in Simpson County, Mississippi, resulting in the deaths of three people and injuries to at least four others.
The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) confirmed that the bridge over the Strong River on State Route 149 collapsed while construction work was underway.
One of the victims killed in the incident has been identified as Charlie Igleharte, according to his sister who confirmed the news to Channel2 NOW.
Another victim of the bridge collapse has been identified as Charles ‘BJ’ Badger, according to a family member.
A third victim, who was injured while working at the scene, has been identified as Aidan Lowery. Fortunately, Lowery is currently in stable condition as he continues to recover from his injuries.
The bridge had been closed to traffic since September 18 as part of a bridge replacement project. T.L. Wallace, the contractor responsible for the project, was in the process of demolishing the existing bridge when the collapse occurred.
An MDOT inspector was present at the work site at the time of the collapse and was unharmed.
The department expressed deep condolences to the families affected by the tragedy.
Simpson County resident Alisha Camper described the situation as “very sad,” emphasizing the rarity of such events in the local community.
Clark County, WA – Authorities are investigating a helicopter crash that occurred Monday evening in the Amboy area of Clark County.
The Clark County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) received reports of the incident at approximately 6:09 p.m., with the crash site located near 449th Street and NE Yale Bridge Road.
Emergency personnel from Fire District 10 responded quickly to the scene.
Upon arrival, crews confirmed that the helicopter’s two occupants had successfully exited the aircraft without injury.
Despite the fortunate outcome, firefighters identified a significant fuel leak originating from the wreckage.
Out of an abundance of caution and to mitigate environmental risks, the Washington State Department of Ecology was notified and is now involved in managing the fuel spill.
Both the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have been informed of the incident and will be conducting a full investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
Deputies with the CCSO remain on scene to secure the area and will maintain control until it is officially turned over to federal investigators.
At this time, no additional information has been released.
Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.