Replica ‘Statue of Liberty’ in Brazil’s Rio Grande do Sul tilts, then collapses

A towering replica of the Statue of Liberty in Brazil’s southern state of Rio Grande do Sul became the centre of a viral spectacle after it was filmed leaning precariously before crashing down. The incident reportedly occurred near a commercial area where such replicas are commonly installed as eye‑catching promotional landmarks, amplifying the shock factor for residents and passers‑by.

 

Local media reports indicate that adverse weather, including strong winds and heavy rain, may have contributed to the collapse, although an official technical assessment is still awaited. Authorities are expected to examine whether the structure met engineering and safety norms, and whether periodic maintenance and inspections were properly conducted. For nearby businesses, the episode has triggered concerns over liability, insurance coverage and the safety of other oversized promotional installations in the region.

 

Key highlights

Sources: Local Brazilian press reports; regional television footage; social media videos shared by eyewitnesses.