Jacksonville: Bridge collapse during Fourth of July celebrations

On Friday, July 4, during Fourth of July celebrations in Fernandina Beach near Jacksonville, a gangway bridge at the city marina collapsed, resulting in minor injuries and momentary panic among attendees.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud sound that resembled gunfire shortly before the structure gave way, prompting alarm and confusion. Some onlookers initially believed the noise was related to an active shooter situation, which led to a rush away from the area. One attendee noted that the bridge did not appear to be overcrowded at the time of the incident. 

The gangway had been installed about five years ago as part of a major marina rebuild following damage from Hurricane Matthew, according to the deputy city manager.

The cause of the collapse has not yet been determined. Officials have launched an investigation to assess the structural failure and identify any contributing factors.