US restaurant deck collapses and crashes into bay, 24 injured

At least 24 people were injured, three critically, when a packed outdoor deck of a popular Florida sports bar collapsed and crashed into Biscayne Bay sending the patrons enjoying their meals into the water.
The deck of Shuckers Bar & Grill, a popular sports bar in North Bay Village spot in Miami-Dade County, collapsed into Biscayne Bay last night, throwing dozens of terrified patrons into the water.
The accident happened as the patrons were enjoying their meals while watching the televised NBA Finals showdown between the San Antonio Spurs and the hometown Miami Heat.
Dozens of police and fire-rescue units from around Miami-Dade rushed to the scene after the sudden collapse, which happened about 9:45 pm (local time), minutes before the game's halftime, as the Heat was pulling away from the Spurs.

Fire Rescue Capt Eugene Germain Jr said approximately 100 people were on the deck when it fell into the water. The deck's official capacity was not immediately known, the Miami Herald reported.
Authorities are treating 24 victims, three of whom have "critical injuries," Germain said.

"There was just a crack, and then we were in the water," said Crystal Infante, who was eating and watching the game with friend Hernan Reyes when the deck, about five feet over the water, collapsed.
"It was really hard to get out, and you couldn't find anyone." Infante said.
The water was shallow enough for them to stand, but it was difficult for them to get out because wood, umbrellas, tables, chairs and other debris surrounded them, Infante said.

Multiple air rescue units were also called to the scene.
Pictures from the scene showed rescue workers pulling green plastic deck chairs and piles of debris from the water.
As helicopters circled over the scene, rescuers carried people away on stretchers, one after another.
Bartenders were diving into the water to help rescue patrons. Fire trucks pulled to the water's edge and extended their ladders to help patrons climb to safety.