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.
World
Vatican Confirms Pope Francis Died from Cerebral Stroke Followed by Irreversible Heart Failure
The Vatican has officially confirmed that Pope Francis died from a cerebral stroke, which led to a coma and ultimately resulted in irreversible heart failure.
The announcement was made in a statement released shortly after his passing.
Although Pope Francis did not preside over Easter Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica this year, he made a brief public appearance at the conclusion of the service to deliver his “Urbi et Orbi” (“to the city and to the world”) Easter message.
The speech, a traditional papal address given twice a year, was read aloud by an aide just one day before his death.
In the wake of his passing, the Vatican initiated its first public act of mourning—a Rosary prayer service held in St. Peter’s Square at sunset.
The solemn gathering was led by Cardinal Mauro Gambetti, Archpriest of St. Peter’s Basilica.
The first reading was delivered by Sister Raffaella Petrini, Secretary General of the Governorate of the Vatican City State and one of the highest-ranking women in Vatican leadership.
Her role exemplified Pope Francis’ commitment to increasing the involvement of women in decision-making positions within the Church.
Among the many tributes pouring in from around the world, U.S. President Donald Trump reflected on Pope Francis’ legacy during remarks at the annual White House Easter Egg Roll, saying, “He was a very good man who loved the world.”
Pope Francis is widely remembered as a transformative figure within the Catholic Church.
Known for his humility and progressive tone, he sought to challenge longstanding institutional norms. Jesuit scholar Thomas Reese once observed that Francis worked to “change the style of being Pope, attack clericalism, empower the laity, open the church to conversation and debate, and shift the pastoral and public priorities of the Church.”
Further arrangements regarding the funeral and conclave will be released in the coming days as the Vatican enters an official period of mourning.