A 24‑metre Statue of Liberty replica fell onto a parking lot in Guaíba, Brazil, on Monday 15 December amid a 130 km/h wind storm.
Incident details
On Monday, 15 December, a 24‑metre replica of the Statue of Liberty toppled onto a parking lot in the city of Guaíba, Brazil. The monument sat on an 11‑metre base.
Wind conditions
The area experienced strong wind gusts reaching up to 130 km/h, a severe storm that caused the collapse. Brazilian authorities had issued warnings for winds up to 90 km/h and sudden thunderstorms.
Video evidence
A video posted online captures the monument tilting and then falling onto the parking lot beside a parked car. No vehicles were damaged and no injuries were reported.
Company response
The replica belongs to the Havan retail chain. The company isolated the area immediately, following all safety protocols, and has begun an internal investigation while assuring that debris removal will not affect normal operations. Havan states that the monument met all required standards.
Investigation
An internal investigation has been launched, and authorities warned earlier that week of strong winds and sporadic storms.
