In a tragic incident at the Calandbrug in Rotterdam, a car plunged into the water after breaking through barriers on an open bridge, leading to the discovery of two deceased occupants early Monday morning.
The accident occurred around 00:30 on April 7, 2025, when the bridge was raised, allowing maritime traffic to pass. Witnesses reported seeing the vehicle approach at high speed from the A15, despite the barriers being down. Eyewitness accounts indicated the car sped under the open bridge deck before it fell into the water between the bridge's pillars.
Emergency services responded promptly, deploying fire brigade divers and a trauma helicopter to the scene. Initial searches using drones and divers failed to locate anyone in the water. As the hours passed, the operation transitioned from a search for survivors to a recovery mission.
At approximately 08:15, the submerged vehicle was successfully retrieved from the water. Inside, authorities discovered the bodies of two individuals, whose identities have not yet been disclosed. The police have stated that the cause of the accident remains under investigation, and all possibilities are being considered.
Following the recovery of the vehicle, road traffic was allowed to resume on the bridge, while shipping traffic in the area remained halted. The police have yet to provide further updates on the investigation as they work to piece together the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
As the investigation continues, the local community is left grappling with the aftermath of the incident. The Calandbrug, a vital link in Rotterdam's transport network, has seen a significant disruption in maritime operations, with authorities working to assess the situation and ensure safety measures are in place to prevent future accidents.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with open bridges and the importance of adhering to safety protocols. Officials are urging drivers to remain vigilant and heed warning signals when approaching such structures.
As the day unfolds, the focus remains on supporting the families of the deceased and understanding the factors that contributed to this unfortunate accident. The local police department is appealing to anyone with information about the incident to come forward as they continue their investigation.
