Barges Strike Bridge, Two Sink
A towboat with 20 barges loaded with coal struck the center pier of the Westbound lanes of the Natchez–Vidalia Bridge which crosses over the Mississippi River. Local residents reported that the collision was loud enough to hear along the bluffs overlooking the river. Officials closed the bridge for several hours to inspect the bridge. The inspections found no problems stating the damage was limited to a few scrapes on the pier. Two of the 20 barges sank after the collision. One is in deep water directly under the bridge while the other is downriver on the right bank. The barge owners stated they will be working with a salvage company to recover both barges.
