World
Video shows moments Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge connecting Maranhão to Tocantins collapses
Aguiarnopólis, TO/Estreito, MA, Brazil – The Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge, a vital transportation link connecting Aguiarnopólis in Tocantins and Estreito in Maranhão, suffered a devastating collapse on the afternoon of December 22, 2024. The incident has not only disrupted regional transport but also raised serious concerns about infrastructure safety in the region.
The collapse occurred at approximately 2:50 p.m. local time when the central span of the bridge gave way. The failure caused vehicles, including at least one truck, to plunge into the Rio Tocantins below. Eyewitness videos circulating on social media captured the terrifying moment, leaving the local community in shock.
Tragically, the incident claimed the life of at least one individual, an unidentified woman, while several others sustained injuries. The truck driver, who was among those affected, was rescued and transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Emergency services, including the Maranhão Fire Department and the Federal Highway Police, quickly mobilized to the scene to carry out rescue operations and manage the unfolding crisis.
The bridge collapse has caused widespread panic and disruption, particularly among residents who depended on the structure for daily commutes between Tocantins and Maranhão. The bridge also served as a critical artery in the region’s transportation network, linking major highways such as the BR-226 and BR-230.
Authorities are working to determine the cause of the collapse, with initial reports suggesting that warning signs of structural damage may have been overlooked. The Maranhão Governor, Carlos Brandão, expressed deep concern over the tragedy, emphasizing the urgency of coordinated efforts. “We are maintaining close contact with the Ministries of Transport and Integration, as well as the National Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DNIT), to ensure that rescue and recovery operations are handled efficiently,” Brandão stated.
The DNIT has since declared the BR-226 impassable, advising travelers to use alternative routes. Officials have pledged to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incident, focusing on potential maintenance lapses and the overall safety of Brazil’s aging infrastructure.
The Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge, inaugurated in 1960 and spanning 533 meters, has long been a cornerstone of the regional transportation system. Its sudden collapse highlights the critical need for investment in infrastructure maintenance to prevent future tragedies.
As the affected community grapples with the immediate aftermath, mourning the loss of life and facing logistical challenges, residents and leaders alike hope this devastating event will spur renewed focus on infrastructure safety and modernization across Brazil.
Indian police confirmed Tuesday that Sajid Akram, one of the two gunmen responsible for Sunday’s deadly mass shooting at Bondi Beach in Sydney, was an Indian citizen who emigrated from India nearly three decades ago.
Akram and his son, Naveed Akram, allegedly opened fire on attendees at the “Chanukah by the Sea” celebration, killing 15 people and injuring several others.
In a statement, police in India’s southern state of Telangana said Sajid Akram was originally from Hyderabad and migrated to Australia in November 1998 in search of employment.
“Based on information available from family members in India, Sajid Akram maintained minimal contact with his relatives in Hyderabad over the past 27 years,” the statement said.
Authorities noted that Akram returned to India on six occasions following his migration, primarily for family-related matters such as property issues and visits to elderly parents.
Police added that he did not return to India even at the time of his father’s death.
Indian officials emphasized that there were no adverse records or criminal history associated with Akram during his time in India.
Family members told investigators they were unaware of any extremist views, radical activity, or behaviors that might have suggested violent tendencies.
“The factors that led to the radicalisation of Sajid Akram and his son appear to have no connection with India or any local influence in Telangana,” the police statement said.
Australian immigration records list Naveed Akram, 24, as an Australian citizen, according to authorities.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the attack as an act of terrorism and stated that investigators believe the suspects were motivated by Islamic State ideology, with the intent of instilling fear within Australia’s Jewish community.
He announced plans to pursue stronger gun control measures, noting that the older suspect legally possessed a firearms license for recreational hunting.
Authorities and community leaders have begun publicly identifying victims of the attack, which occurred during a Hanukkah celebration meant to mark the beginning of the Jewish holiday.
Those confirmed deceased include religious leaders, community volunteers, elderly residents, a retired police officer, a young immigrant, and a child.
Among the victims identified so far are:
- Rabbi Eli Schlanger, 41, assistant rabbi of Chabad of Bondi
- Rabbi Yaakov Halevi Levitin, 53, Chabad emissary and Sydney Beth Din secretary
- Alex Kleytman, 87, a Ukrainian Holocaust survivor
- Dan Elkayam, 27, a recent immigrant from France
- Reuven Morrison, 62, who reportedly attempted to confront the attackers unarmed
- Matilda Britvan, 10, who attended the event with her family
- Tibor Weitzen, 78, remembered for protecting others
- Peter Meagher, 61, a retired police officer and volunteer photographer
- Marika Pogany, 82, a longtime community volunteer
- Boris Gurman, 69, and Sofia Gurman, 61, a married couple who reportedly attempted to disarm one of the attackers, actions believed to have saved lives
Officials said additional victim names may be released as the investigation continues and families are formally notified.
Police identified the alleged attackers as Sajid Akram, who was killed at the scene, and his son Naveed Akram, who remains hospitalized in critical condition under police guard.
Video circulating online appears to show two men dressed in dark clothing firing long guns from an elevated footbridge behind the surf club as crowds fled in panic.
This remains an active and developing investigation. Authorities in Australia and India continue to coordinate as officials seek to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the attack and its radicalization pathway.
May the victims’ memories be honored and their families supported during this time of profound loss.