Several dead after bridge collapses near Florida International University

A newly-installed pedestrian bridge at Florida International University in Miami collapsed on Thursday afternoon, killing several people, Florida Highway Patrol officials told local NBC News affiliate WTVJ.

Eight cars were trapped under the bridge, said Miami-Dade fire officials at a press conference. Eight victims have been transferred to the hospital, with "a lot of serious injuries," Miami-Dade police officials said.

Fire department and police department officials did not confirm any fatalities, as the search and rescue mission continues.

The 950-ton span fell at the university's main Miami-area campus after being installed on Saturday.

Florida International University released a statement, saying "we are shocked and saddened about the tragic events unfolding at the FIU-Sweetwater pedestrian bridge. At this time we are still involved in rescue efforts and gathering information. We are working closely with authorities and first responders on the scene."

@NBCNews: First responders attend to scene of pedestrian bridge collapse in south Florida.

The school is currently on spring break, so classes are not in session.

The White House said President Donald Trump is aware of the bridge collapse and is monitoring the situation. Florida Gov. Rick Scott tweeted that he will be in "constant communication with law enforcement throughout the day."

Billed as an "instant bridge," the 30-foot-wide, 174-foot-long structure was lifted, rotated 90 degrees across an eight-lane thoroughfare and lowered into place by cranes on Saturday, according to an FIU press release.

It was set to open in early 2019 to allow students on bike and foot to cross the busy roadway safely. It was also supposed to serve as a study and gathering space.

The structure was built and designed by MCM Construction and FIGG Bridge Engineers. MCM Construction said on Twitter Thursday: "Our family's thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by this terrible tragedy."

@WeAreMCM: Our family's thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by this terrible tragedy. The new UniversityCity Bridge, which was under construction, experienced a catastrophic collapse causing injuries and loss of life.

The bridge was built using Accelerated Bridge Construction methods, which reduce "potential risks to workers, commuters and pedestrians and minimizes traffic interruptions," the FIU press release said.

"FIU is about building bridges and student safety. This project accomplishes our mission beautifully," said FIU President Mark B. Rosenberg in the release. "We are filled with pride and satisfaction at seeing this engineering feat come to life and connect our campus to the surrounding community where thousands of our students live."

The $14.2 million bridge across Southwest 8th Street was partially funded by the Department of Transportation through a grant.

@FIU: First-of-its-kind pedestrian bridge "swings" into place. "FIU is about building bridges and student safety. This project accomplishes our mission beautifully," -President Mark B. Rosenberg.