Manager arrested after Indonesian glass bridge shatters, killing tourist

He was charged with negligence over the fatal accident. A conviction could carry a maximum sentence of five years in prison under Indonesia’s criminal law, Jakarta Post reported on Wednesday, citing Banyumas City Police chief Edy Suranta Sitepu.

Investigators determined the 63-year-old manager had personally designed the glass bridge without required licensing and he also failed to adhere to operational standards and safety regulations.

The glass flooring on the broken bridge measured only 1.2cm, police said, according to the Post.

The foam on the glass had deteriorated over time and no information boards or visitor advisories were found at the entrance to the glass bridge, investigators said.

The 32-foot-high suspension bridge is a popular tourist attraction in the Limpakuwus Pine Forest, which is located in Central Java's Banyumas Regency.

The accident occurred on Oct. 25 while a group of tourists were walking on the bridge, Straits Times reported.

Two of the victims fell to the ground when the bridge's glass panels shattered. One of them was declared dead, while the other sustained minor injuries.

Two other tourists managed to cling to the bridge’s frame.

Following the accident, many tourism experts called on the Indonesian government to reconsider building similar tourist attractions to ensure tourist safety.