Pelican Island Bridge Struck By Barge Causing A Portion Of The Bridge To Collapse On Top Of Barge

Wednesday, May 15, 2024, 2:15 P.M. ET. By George Petruska: Englebrook Independent News,

GALVESTON, TX.- On Wednesday, a large barge struck the Pelican Island Bridge, causing a portion of the bridge to collapse on top of the barge causing oil to be spilled into the waterway and closing the only road to Pelican Island, officials stated.

     The bridge that connects Pelican Island, located just north of Galveston, was hit at around 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, said Ronnie Varela who is with the Galveston Office of Emergency Management. Varela did not have any immediate information if there were any injuries.

     The Galveston County Sheriff’s Office told KTRK News that a large section of the bridge fell. Pictures broadcast by KTRK showed evidence of pieces of concrete resting on top of the barge.

      An online statement from Texas A&M University stated, “The Pelican Island Bridge is closed to all traffic at this time due to a barge strike. Electricity has been restored and additional updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.”