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.
SAGAMU, Ogun State, Nigeria — The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed that Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, the driver of the Lexus SUV involved in the fatal motor vehicle collision that injured British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua and killed two passengers, has been formally charged in court.
Police officials stated that Kayode, 46, was arraigned on Thursday, January 2, 2026, before the Sagamu Magistrate Court, where he faces charges of reckless and dangerous driving.
The case has been adjourned until January 20, 2026, for further proceedings.
According to police, the crash occurred earlier in the week along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, a major highway in southwestern Nigeria.
The Lexus SUV was transporting Anthony Joshua and two of his close associates, Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, when it collided with a stationary truck parked along the roadway.
Both Ayodele and Ghami sustained fatal injuries in the crash.
Police spokesperson Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed that the defendant was granted bail in the sum of ₦5 million (approximately $3,480 USD), with two sureties, and was remanded in custody pending the fulfillment of the bail conditions.
The Ogun State Police Command reiterated in a public update that the arraignment followed a comprehensive preliminary investigation into the circumstances of the collision.
Authorities emphasized that investigations remain ongoing.
Anthony Joshua, a former world heavyweight boxing champion, survived the crash but reportedly suffered significant emotional trauma as a result of the incident.
Ayodele and Ghami were described as long-time friends, training partners, and key members of Joshua’s professional support team, regularly accompanying him before, during, and after major fights.
Ayodele was notably present ringside during Joshua’s recent bout, where he was seen holding the Nigerian flag.
The remains of the two deceased men were transported to a mortuary in Sagamu.
Both were reported to be Muslims, and arrangements for burial in accordance with Islamic rites are pending. Officials have not yet confirmed when their bodies will be repatriated to the United Kingdom.
Authorities have also renewed calls for improved road safety enforcement, particularly concerning the illegal and prolonged parking of heavy-duty trucks along highways, which has been cited as a recurring hazard on Nigerian roads.
The Ogun State Police Command urged motorists to exercise caution, adhere strictly to speed limits, and ensure proper judgment when overtaking or maneuvering on highways.
Further updates are expected as the case proceeds through the court system.