SIMPSON COUNTY, Miss. ( WJTV ) – Simpson County neighbors are still reeling from the fatal bridge collapse over the Strong River.

Simpson County Coroner identified the three victims who died as Kevin Malone, Charles Ingleharte, and Charles Badger. They were employed by T.L. Wallace, the contractor for the project. The workers were in the process of demolishing the bridge on State Route 149.

Three survivors are in serious condition at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in Jackson. Another person, who was injured, was treated at the scene on Wednesday.

One of the injured men was Aidan Lowerly. His sister said her brother was airlifted to UMMC and had to undergo surgery for his leg. He also has six fractures in his back.

Residents said they can’t believe such a tragic loss of life happened in their town.

“I’m going to have to tell you, like the Lord knows it. We don’t know if they were saved, if they knew God, which, God, I’ve prayed every night since this happened that they are saved, and they did realize that Jesus had them,” said Tracy Runnels, a resident. “I wonder if they were hungry, if they were thirsty, what was their thoughts?”

“I’m shocked mostly because they had their whole lives ahead of them. I mean, it don’t matter how old they are, 17, 18, 20, 30. I mean, if you really love your kids, you’re going to have some effect due to what happened,” said Courtney Chilton, a resident.

The bridge replacement project will remain on hold until the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) takes a thorough look into what caused the collapse. Officials with T.L. Wallace said they’re in complete compliance with the investigation.

Simpson County deputies asked neighbors to stay away from the bridge site.

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for us in your inbox.

Subscribe Now

Daily News

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJTV.