An innovative construction method that was supposed to reduce risks for workers and pedestrians, while minimizing traffic disruptions across from Florida International University's main campus in Miami-Dade, ended in tragedy Thursday, Local10 reports.
As a recovery operation continued early Friday morning, federal, state and local authorities were investigating how a pedestrian bridge connecting FIU with Sweetwater collapsed across Eighth Street killing at least four victims.
FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg said all of the contractors were fully certified by the state and the builder was recommended by the Florida Department of Transportation. He also said they were testing the bridge, which was set to open next year.
The bridge's 950-ton section flattened eight cars traveling on the east-to-west road and left at least nine injured, according to Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Chief Dave Downey. Some were taken to Kendall Regional Medical Center's trauma unit.