UPDATE 4:54 PM

The Coast Guard is shutting down the immediate area around the Brooks Bridge. Water and sewer officials are on their way in reference to what is either a broken water main or sewer main across the span. We do not have a specific arrival time for DOT engineers who are en route to inspect the damage caused when the bridge was struck by a barge or crane on top of a barge around 3:17 this afternoon. A span of railing is missing in that area. The Sheriff’s Office is assisting with traffic but the F-DOT will decide when the bridge can re-open.

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The Brooks Bridge linking Okaloosa Island and Fort Walton Beach is temporarily closed after being struck by a barge around 3:17 p.m. this afternoon.

Engineers from the Florida Department of Transportation are en route to inspect the damage.

No injuries are reported, however a water main on the bridge has ruptured.

The appropriate agencies will have additional information reference the extent of the damage and related issues.

We will also issue any updates on the bridge’s opening as they become available.