A bridge linking Brazil's northern and northeastern regions collapsed on Sunday while vehicles were crossing, resulting in at least one fatality and the spillage of sulfuric acid into the Tocantins River.

The National Department of Transport Infrastructure reported that the central span of the 533-meter (0.3-mile) bridge, which connects the cities of Estreito in Maranhão and Aguiarnópolis in Tocantins, gave way in the afternoon. A tanker truck carrying sulfuric acid fell into the river as a result of the collapse.

Fire department officials confirmed one death, with another person rescued alive from the scene.

Elias Junior, a city councilman from Aguiarnópolis, was recording a video urging authorities to address the bridge's deteriorating condition, which he claimed was no longer suitable for heavy trucks. While filming, he pointed to a large crack on the bridge’s shoulder, and just moments later, the structure collapsed, forcing him to flee. Reuters could not independently verify the video, and Junior has not responded to requests for comment.

Initial reports suggest at least 11 people were involved in the accident, including occupants of two trucks, a car, and a motorcycle, all of which plunged into the river, which is over 50 meters (164 feet) deep.

By evening, rescue divers halted their efforts after discovering a submerged tanker leaking sulfuric acid, according to the Tocantins fire department.

The bridge, known as the Juscelino Kubitschek de Oliveira Bridge, was inaugurated in 1960 and is part of the BR-226 highway, connecting Brasilia, the federal capital, to Belém, a northern city that will host the United Nations Climate Change Conference next year.