Suspension bridge in Colombia snaps, killing 8

EL CARMEN, Colombia, Jan. 10 (UPI) -- Colombian officials said at least eight people died near the city of Villavicencio when one side of a deteriorated suspension bridge made of wood and rope snapped.

Colombia's National Disaster Risk Management Unit, or UNGRD, said the incident occurred at 11 a.m. on Monday in the El Carmen forest reserve, which is south-southwest of Villavicencio.

UNGRD said "its collapse apparently was due to the excess weight." Monday was a public holiday and more visitors were present.

At its highest point from the ravine below, the bridge is up to 50 feet high. At least 13 people were injured after the bridge collapse. The Colombian Red Cross responded to the incident.

The Villavicencio Risk Management Municipal Council early Tuesday said the death toll remains at eight, despite reports indicating 11 people died. Three victims were minors, who died at the ages of 2, 4 and 12, Entérate Villavo reported.

A Villavicencio mayor's office official said about 30 people were on the bridge.