Four killed in Ecuador bridge collapse

At least four people have died after a suspension bridge collapsed in Ecuador, government officials confirmed on Friday, March 21, 2025.

Media reports indicate that the 200-meter bridge fell on Wednesday, causing vehicles to plunge into the Magro River, located 50 kilometers from Guayaquil.

Four trucks, a car, and two motorcycles fell into the river as the bridge gave way.

Initially, authorities reported one death, five injuries, and two missing persons, but later updated the figures.

The National Secretariat of Risk Management confirmed the recovery of four bodies from the river.

Rescue workers are still searching for one additional missing person, according to officials.

The bridge connected Guayas, where Guayaquil is situated, to the surrounding areas located in another northern province in Ecuador.

Guayas Governor, Marcela Aguinaga, stated that no previous reports indicated any structural defects in the bridge.

“From what we have observed, the bridge was likely overloaded before it collapsed,” she said on her social media account X (formerly Twitter).

Officials have yet to determine the exact cause of the collapse.

The incident has raised concerns about Ecuador’s infrastructure safety and maintenance.

Several eyewitnesses described the moment of the collapse as sudden and terrifying.

A truck driver, who barely escaped, said he saw vehicles plunging into the river within seconds.

Survivors have called for a thorough investigation into the incident.

Authorities have urged motorists to avoid the area as emergency operations continue.

Families of the victims are demanding justice and accountability from the government.

The Ecuadorian government has pledged to conduct a full investigation into the tragedy.

The collapse occurred during Ecuador’s rainy season, which has caused severe damage in several regions.

Flooding and landslides have killed at least 20 people across the country in recent weeks.

The National Risk Management Ministry reported that 45 bridges have been damaged due to heavy rains.

Experts say Ecuador’s aging infrastructure is vulnerable to extreme weather conditions.

Local engineers have also warned that more bridges could collapse if maintenance is not prioritized.

Some residents blame poor construction and lack of regular inspections for the collapse.

Government officials have promised compensation for victims’ families and support for those injured.

Emergency workers continue to search the river for any remaining victims.

The tragedy has sparked national debates over Ecuador’s infrastructure policies and disaster preparedness.

Residents near the collapsed bridge fear further structural failures in other parts of the country.

Authorities have assured the public that all major bridges will be inspected immediately.

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