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
Cessna Aircraft Crashes Into Field During Takeoff Attempt in Batavia, Ohio; Instructor and Student Reportedly Uninjured
BATAVIA, Ohio (Clermont County) — A Cessna aircraft went down into a field after an unsuccessful takeoff attempt near Sporty’s Pilot Shop in Batavia, Ohio, according to preliminary incident information.
Both occupants, a flight instructor and a student pilot, reportedly escaped the incident without injuries.
The aircraft crash was reported near 2001 Sporty’s Drive in Batavia, in Clermont County. Initial information indicates that the Cessna failed to take off and went down into a nearby field.
Two people were aboard the aircraft at the time of the incident. They were identified in the initial report as a flight instructor and a student pilot.
Both occupants reportedly exited the aircraft and were reported to be uninjured. According to the preliminary information, they were being transported back to Sporty’s Pilot Shop following the incident.
No injuries were reported in the information provided, although further official confirmation may be needed.
The incident occurred in the area of Sporty’s Drive in Batavia, a community in Clermont County, Ohio. The aircraft reportedly entered a field after failing to become airborne during its takeoff attempt.
Details about the aircraft’s condition, the precise circumstances of the failed takeoff and whether emergency crews or aviation investigators responded were not immediately available in the initial report.
The cause of the incident has not been established, and no additional information about possible damage to the aircraft was provided.
This is a developing story. Further details may become available as authorities confirm the circumstances surrounding the incident.
