A towering replica of the iconic Statue of Liberty met a dramatic end in Brazil, collapsing under the force of powerful winds. The incident, captured on video, shows the moment the 24-metre tall structure gave way, sending pieces crashing to the ground.
The Moment of Collapse Caught on Camera
The collapse occurred in the city of Bertioga, located in the state of São Paulo. According to reports, the area was experiencing severe weather conditions with strong gusts of wind. A widely circulated video clip shows the green-coloured statue, a smaller imitation of the famous New York landmark, swaying precariously before its upper section, including the torch and crown, breaks off and plummets downwards.
Local authorities confirmed that the statue, which was a prominent roadside attraction, fell due to the intense winds. Fortunately, initial reports indicate that no injuries were caused by the collapse, as the area was reportedly cleared in time. The statue was not an official monument but rather a privately-owned structure meant for decorative and promotional purposes.
Details of the Damaged Structure
The replica was a significant size, standing at approximately 24 metres (about 79 feet) in height. For comparison, the original Statue of Liberty in New York Harbour stands at 93 metres from the ground to the tip of the torch. The Brazilian version was constructed from a lightweight metal framework, which may have contributed to its vulnerability in the face of the storm.
The incident took place on December 16, 2025, as confirmed by the source report. The video of the collapse quickly gained traction on social media platforms, with users expressing shock at the sudden destruction of the familiar-looking statue. The site has been cordoned off, and cleanup operations are likely underway to remove the debris.
Reactions and Broader Implications
The unexpected fall of such a large structure has sparked conversations about safety regulations for oversized advertisements and artistic installations, especially in regions prone to volatile weather. While this event ended without human casualty, it serves as a stark reminder of the destructive potential of natural forces.
This is not the first time a Statue of Liberty replica has faced trouble. Similar structures around the world, often built for tourism or commercial reasons, have occasionally required maintenance or faced damage from environmental factors. However, a complete collapse of this scale is notably rare and dramatic.
The owner of the statue or the local municipal corporation has not yet made an official statement regarding potential plans to rebuild or replace the fallen landmark. The focus remains on ensuring the site is safe and assessing any secondary damage caused by the falling debris.
