'Several People Killed' After Pedestrian Bridge Collapsed In Miami

A pedestrian bridge has collapsed in Florida, reportedly killing several people.

Emergency crews are converging on Florida International University in Miami, with ABC News reporting there have been several people killed.

Aerial footage of the incident shows several vehicles have been crushed by the tumbling rubble and there's no word on whether any other people were on or underneath the structure came crashing to the ground.

Miami-Dade County Emergency Management has advised people to avoid the area to allow emergency services easy access.

The university has released a statement, saying: "We are shocked and saddened about the tragic events unfolding."

"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."

Witness Tiona Page told ABC News: "As soon as I looked outside, I saw dust flying everywhere. I knew the bridge had collapsed."

Another person at the scene, Susie Bermudez, told NBC: "I was three seconds away from being under the bridge, but I looked forward. All of a sudden, I saw the bridge collapse, and it started from the left side of the bridge and it really shocked me

"There's probably like seven or eight cars under the bridge so it was very shocking to me, and I'm very grateful to be alive."

Florida Governor Rick Scott has tweeted saying: "I have spoken with Miami-Dade County Police Chief Juan Perez about the pedestrian bridge collapse at FIU. I will be in constant communication with law enforcement throughout the day."

Munilla Construction Management, one of the companies that helped build the structure has also released a statement, saying: "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.

"MCM is a family business and we are all devastated and doing everything we can to assist. We will conduct a full investigation to determine exactly what went wrong and will cooperate with investigators on scene in every way."

CBS Miami claims the 950-ton bridge cost $14.2 million to build. NBC adds that it was scheduled to be officially opened next year and was designed to withstand hurricane force winds.

The National Transportation Safety Board will be sending a team to the area to conduct an investigation into the potential causes of the collapse.

More to come