By: Meredith Francis ~Campus News Editor~
One man was killed and another injured after an overpass collapsed on I-75 South in Cincinnati. Brandon Carl, a 35-year-old construction worker who was
working on the demolition project on the Hopple Street overpass, died when a section of the bridge fell onto the interstate below. A truck driver was also injured in the incident.
A spokesman for the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) said that the removal project was “routine operation.” I-75 South is currently closed, and traffic is being diverted to I-74, where police officials will help direct the detour.
ODOT said that Kokosing Construction Company, the company working on the demolition of the overpass, will conduct an investigation into why the bridge collapsed. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration will also launch its own investigation.
When the preliminary investigation is complete, ODOT will remove the bridge and any remaining debris from the roadway. Officials will also examine any damage on the road and will ensure that the concrete is stable before that portion of I-75 reopens for traffic. The road could remain closed for several days.