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
3 killed after car crashes into freight train in Harvey, victims identified
No injuries were reported among the train crew or passengers, CSX stated.
A tragic crash in the south suburbs on Wednesday resulted in the deaths of three people, following a devastating collision with a freight train.
The incident occurred at approximately 12:31 p.m. near 152nd Street and Park Avenue in Harvey, close to Thornton Township High School.
Emergency crews spent about eight hours on the scene, investigating the deadly crash and its aftermath.
According to officials from CSX Transportation, a vehicle ignored the lowered crossing gates and collided with the side of a freight train.
The three individuals inside the vehicle suffered fatal injuries as a result of the impact.
The Cook County Medical Examiner confirmed the deaths, identifying the victims as Kimberly Kimmy Kim, Crystal Jakubowski, and Keith (last name not released).
No injuries were reported among the train crew or passengers, CSX stated.
At this time, the exact circumstances leading up to the crash remain unclear. It is not yet known why the driver bypassed the crossing gates.
CSX, in cooperation with Illinois State Police and the Harvey Police Department, is conducting a thorough investigation into the cause of the collision.
Although Dolton police were present at the scene, CSX clarified that they are not handling the investigation.
As of now, no further details have been released, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward to assist with the inquiry.