Sector 7 remains largely inaccessible following a catastrophic structural failure of the Northwood Bridge earlier this morning. Initial reports indicate a sudden and complete collapse of the central span, plunging a heavily laden transport convoy into the river below. Authorities are currently assessing the full extent of the damage and attempting to establish a rescue operation, hampered by treacherous currents and limited visibility.

The incident occurred at approximately 07:15 hours local time. Witnesses describe a low rumble preceding the collapse, followed by a deafening roar as the bridge buckled and gave way. The convoy, transporting critical supplies for the ongoing Reclamation Project, consisted of five heavy-duty vehicles and a support team of fifteen personnel. Search and rescue teams, comprised of both Sector 7’s own Rapid Response Unit and units dispatched from the Central Command, are working tirelessly to locate survivors.

“It was like…like the world just stopped,” recounted Elias Vance, a member of the Rapid Response Unit stationed near the collapse site. “One second, we were securing the perimeter, the next there was this monstrous sound and then… just chaos. The water’s incredibly swift, and the debris field is immense. We’re doing everything we can, but it’s…grim.”

The collapse has immediately halted all transport operations within Sector 7, a critical blow to the already strained efforts to contain the Silent Zone’s expansion. The Reclamation Project, aimed at neutralizing the zone’s anomalous effects, relies heavily on the constant flow of materials and personnel. Experts are expressing concerns that this disruption could significantly impede progress.

“This isn’t just about the supplies,” stated Dr. Aris Thorne, lead researcher on the Reclamation Project, during a hastily arranged press briefing. “The bridge itself was a linchpin. Its stability was integral to our understanding of the zone’s behavior. Now, we’re facing a complete setback. We need to determine what caused this – was it a localized anomaly, or something far more systemic?”

The Central Command has issued a Level 3 Alert, advising all personnel within Sector 7 to remain in their designated safe zones. Further updates will be provided as they become available. The investigation into the cause of the bridge collapse is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.