A 21-year-old woman died during a bungee jump at a bridge in São Paulo state after authorities say she was released from the platform before her safety rope was attached.
Maria Eduardo Rodrigues de Freitas fell from the so-called “Skeleton Bridge” in Limeira on Saturday during the recreational jump. Emergency responders arrived at the scene but could only confirm her death, and her body was transferred to the Legal Medical Institute for examination.
What Happened
Preliminary investigations indicate that Freitas was allegedly released from the jumping platform before the essential safety rope had been properly secured. Video footage of the incident circulated online, prompting public outrage and renewed scrutiny of safety practices in Brazil’s adventure tourism sector.
Medical teams responded quickly to the accident, though they were unable to intervene before her death.
Investigation and Detentions
Brazilian authorities have detained six individuals connected to organizing the event as investigators examine whether negligence, procedural failures, or safety regulation violations caused the tragedy. Officials are determining whether the activity was operating in full compliance with legal requirements.
Authorities are also reviewing whether proper inspections, maintenance, and access controls were in place at the bridge location.
Official Response and Safety Concerns
The Limeira City Council announced plans to file a complaint against Brazil’s federal government, claiming officials did not respond to repeated requests for improved safety measures at the bridge. Local leaders said they had been warning authorities about potential dangers at the site since early 2025.
City officials noted that responsibility for inspection and maintenance at the bridge falls under federal jurisdiction. The incident has renewed calls for stricter regulations governing high-risk recreational activities across Brazil.
This story has been updated. CNN’s Digital Team contributed to this report.
