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MOA parking ramp partially closed after fatal accident

9:19 AM, Aug 5, 2012   |    comments
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BLOOMINGTON, Minn. -- A parking ramp at the Mall of America remained partially closed Saturday, a full day after a concrete and steel beam fell onto a moving truck, killing the driver.

On Friday at 8:30 p.m., authorities say a 52-year-old man drove a U-Haul truck past a hanging sign warning drivers of the height limit.  The man struck a beam, which then fell onto the truck -- killing the driver and injuring his passengers, a 45-year-old woman and her 12-year-old daughter.  Officials have not yet released the name of the victim.

On Saturday, authorities said there was no further risk to drivers.  They said several structural engineers confirmed the ramp remains safe.

But authorities did say the ramp would remain partially closed for the weekend, as crews continue to clean up the debris.

Meantime, shoppers said their hearts go out to the family of the victim.

"Definitely prayers go out to his family, and maybe they can spread the word about just paying attention when you're driving," said Jeremy O'Keefe, a shopper.

"Especially people shopping today.  Kind of hits them when they're here.  Definitely thoughts and prayers go out to their family," said Frank Deaugustine, also a shopper.

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