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.
Local News
Jessica Sellers and her three children killed in Carrollton house fire
First responders were able to rescue a young girl, believed to be around 3 years old, from the back of the burning home.
Carrollton, KY – A devastating fire ripped through a downtown Carrollton residence on Thursday morning, claiming the lives of multiple residents.
The City of Carrollton issued a social media alert around 8:00 AM, urging people to avoid the 200 block of 5th Street due to the active fire.
According to the Carrollton Police Department, authorities received reports of the blaze shortly after 6:00 AM and arrived on the scene within six minutes.
The house fire claimed the lives of Jessica Gibson Sellers and her three children. While her granddaughter survived and is currently receiving critical care in the hospital, her daughter and two sons were unable to escape the blaze.
Thankfully, first responders were able to rescue a young girl, believed to be around 3 years old, from the back of the burning home.
“Officers found the child collapsed on the floor near the rear door,” stated Dave Roberts, Public Information Officer for the Carrollton Police Department.
The child was initially transported to a nearby hospital but was later transferred to a Louisville facility for further treatment.
Authorities believe that five to six individuals resided in the two-story home, but the exact number of occupants present during the fire remains unclear. As of 11:30 AM, fire crews continued their efforts to extinguish the blaze and secure the scene for investigators. Kentucky Utilities personnel are also on-site, assisting with debris removal using excavators.
Due to ongoing operations, the surrounding area is expected to remain closed for several hours. The Kentucky State Police Arson Unit is assisting with the investigation.