A pier at the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Memorial Union Terrace on Lake Mendota gave way on Monday afternoon, September 4. As a result, an estimated 60 to 80 students fell into the lake.
The incident was recorded and subsequently shared on various social media platforms. The footage shows an initial section of the pier collapsing, followed by other parts falling in a sequence similar to dominoes.
Gabrielle Willbrandt, a freshman at the university, was present during the collapse. She described her shock at witnessing the event, recalling her disbelief as she spoke to another student.
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel has indicated that roughly 25 students experienced minor injuries due to the incident. One student needed hospital care, and five others were treated on-site. Thankfully, the majority did not need medical assistance.
In the aftermath, students were observed swimming back to shore. Many were seen holding their phones above the water to prevent them from getting wet.
Local officials are currently investigating the cause of the collapse. Of note, plans were already in place to remove the pier the very next day.