BRANSON, MO — A quiet afternoon in the Branson area turned tense today after a bridge partially collapsed, sending large chunks of concrete tumbling into the creek below. The incident occurred shortly after 2:00 p.m., prompting an immediate emergency response and the full closure of the affected highway.
According to local authorities, the collapse involved a section of the bridge deck that gave way without warning. Drivers on the road reported hearing a loud cracking sound moments before part of the structure broke apart and fell into the water. Fortunately, no vehicles were directly over the damaged section at the time, and no injuries have been reported.
Firefighters, police officers, and structural engineers arrived quickly at the scene to assess the situation. Traffic was redirected, and officials have since confirmed that the highway will remain closed indefinitely until the bridge’s stability can be fully inspected and repairs made.
“The most important thing right now is public safety,” said a Missouri Department of Transportation spokesperson. “We’re grateful no one was hurt, but we have to take every precaution to ensure the rest of the structure is safe before reopening the area.”
Witnesses described the collapse as sudden but not catastrophic, with debris falling mostly into the creek below rather than onto the roadway. Crews are currently working to remove loose concrete and secure the perimeter.
Initial reports suggest the bridge, built several decades ago, had been due for inspection later this year. Engineers will now conduct a detailed investigation to determine whether age, weather, or underlying structural issues played a role in the failure.
Local residents expressed concern but also relief that the incident didn’t turn tragic. “It could have been so much worse,” one nearby homeowner said. “That bridge is used by hundreds of cars every day.”
Officials have urged the public to avoid the area and follow detour signs until further notice. Updates on the inspection and repair timeline are expected in the coming days.
About the Author
