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Natcher Bridge Reopens After Fire

A fire burns under the William Natcher Bridge near Owensboro
Owensboro Fire Department
A fire burns under the William Natcher Bridge near Owensboro

A fire temporarily closed the four-lane William Natcher Bridge that connects Rockport and Owensboro

A bridge that connects Rockport and the Owensboro area has reopened following a fire. WNIN’s John Gibson has the story:

Authorities shut down all lanes of the William Natcher Bridge over the Ohio River when flames were spotted near the support structure of the bridge Monday evening.

The fire appeared to have started in drift wood that had accumulated beneath the bridge following recent flooding.

The view from above as a fire burns under the William Natcher Bridge, Monday evening, Aug. 10, 2026
Owensboro Fire Department
The view from above as a fire burns under the William Natcher Bridge, Monday evening, Aug. 10, 2026

Firefighters extinguished the flames and bridge inspectors from the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet were called to the scene.

After assessing the bridge supports, the inspectors determined the damage was "cosmetic" and they allowed the roadway to reopen.

The transportation cabinet says repairs will be made in coordination with an ongoing maintenance project.

Flames spotted under the William Natcher Bridge, Aug. 10, 2026
OFiD
Flames spotted under the William Natcher Bridge, Aug. 10, 2026