Stunned by horrific accident

To the editor:As recent transplants to Southeastern Missouri from Minnesota, my husband and I were stunned and deeply saddened to hear of the Interstate 35W bridge collapse over the Mississippi River Wednesday in Minneapolis. After frantic telephone calls to our former hometown -- many of which failed because of cell-phone problems following the bridge's collapse -- we were fortunate to determine that our family members who still reside there were all safe.

Our hearts go out to the families and acquaintances of those who died or were injured in what was an horrific incident. Having resided in suburban Minneapolis for the better part of the last half-century, we are both quite familiar with the bridge in question. Watching CNN's coverage last night, I chillingly realized I had traveled across the affected bridge just last month on a visit home.

LINDA TILSEN, Jackson