The identities of three people killed during a bridge collapse in Mississippi on Wednesday have been released.
The Simpson County coroner confirmed Thursday that the people who died were Charles Badger, Kevin Malone, and Charles Igleharte, all of Marion County. The three men worked for T.L. Wallace Construction, a company contracted to tear down a closed bridge over the Strong River on State Route 149.
According to the Mississippi Department of Transportation, the work site accident happened as seven workers were on the bridge when it gave way and plummeted 40 feet. The other four were injured and transported to a local hospital.
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T.L. Wallace Construction, based in nearby Columbia, issued the following statement:
“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.”
As for the other four injured during the incident, three are in critical condition and are still hospitalized. A contractor from the Department of Transportation was also on-site at the time of the bridge collapsing but was uninjured.