Ms. Thieu Thi Hoa (Van Xuan commune, Tam Nong district, Phu Tho province) said that after crossing the bridge for a few dozen meters, the bridge collapsed, causing many people to fall into the river and be swept away by the water.
"This morning I went to Lam Thao to go to the market. As soon as I passed by, I heard a loud noise, turned around and saw the bridge collapsed. There were motorbikes, trucks, cars, all fell down and were quickly swept away. The river water was too strong and turbulent. At that time, I was so scared that I stopped my car and sat down on the side of the road because I had a narrow escape. I don't remember exactly but it was around 9:30. Now I don't go to the market anymore, I just find my way home, my ancestors bless me through this ordeal," said Ms. Hoa.
Many people also walked on Phong Chau bridge this morning and were lucky to escape death by a hair's breadth. Their limbs are still limp from fear.
Mr. Luu Trung Son (Van Xuan commune, Tam Nong district) also said that he was sitting drinking water at the head of the bridge when he heard a rumbling sound. After everyone shouted, he saw the bridge collapse.
"I don't remember when this bridge was built. I work as a taxi driver so I travel here every day. Seeing this scene, I was so scared because I was planning to go to Viet Tri city to pick up a passenger, but hesitated and lingered at the head of the bridge for a few minutes to drink a glass of water. I don't know if I had left earlier, would I have been among the unfortunate people who fell into the river?" - Mr. Son said in shock.
Speaking with a reporter from Lao Dong Newspaper, a representative of the People's Committee of Phung Nguyen Commune, Lam Thao District confirmed that an incident of 2 abutments of Phong Chau Bridge had just occurred.
The damage is still being assessed and the identities of those who fell in the bridge collapse have not yet been determined. Below are some images recorded at the scene:
