Clackmannanshire Bridge closed in search for missing driver

Published 13th Nov 2015

A search is continuing for a man who crashed into a bridge and ended up in the water below after police tried to alert him to a safety problem with his vehicle.

The incident happened on the Clackmannanshire Bridge at around 2.50am when a blue Transit van struck the safety barriers on the bridge.

The male driver of the van, the only occupant, then left the vehicle and climbed over the bridge's safety railings before entering the Firth of Forth, which was at high tide, Police Scotland said.

The man has not been seen since entering the water and inquiries are ongoing.

Chief Inspector Irene Ralston said: At this time the main focus of this operation is to trace the man, who has not been seen since he went into the water, which was at high tide. We are continuing to keep his family informed and supported.

The incident happened as officers were in the very initial stages of attempting to make the driver aware of their presence and their concerns over the condition of his van. Anyone with information relevant to this incident is asked to contact police immediately.

We are also keen to hear from other motorists who may have been on the roadway around the Clackmannanshire Bridge just before 2.50am on Friday morning and saw the blue Transit van.

If you believe you can assist us then please come forward. In the meantime I would like to thank the public for their patience and co-operation while the bridge remains closed.''

The crossing will remain closed for the foreseeable future'' while the search continues.