Genoa Bridge collapse: ITV News at Ten newsreader Tom Bradby criticised for ‘unsympathetic’ reporting on tragedy

ITV News at Ten reporter Tom Bradby has been heavily criticised for his “unsympathetic” reporting of the Genoa Bridge tragedy.

Newsreader Mr Bradby sent viewers into a rage with his introduction to the story of the disastar in which at least 39 people died.

Mr Bradby said: “How often have all of us driven over a motorway bridge? Has it ever crossed your mind that it might actually fall down beneath you?

“Well today in Genoa, one did with devastating consequences.”

Mr Bradby has been branded “lurid”, with one user on social media even suggesting the broadcaster should lose his job.

Nigel Campbell said: “Shocked and appalled by the crass way in which #itvnews reported the Genoa bridge collapse this evening. Just awful tabloid unsympathetic and lurid treatment of a tragic event.”

Estella Joyce said: “Tom Bradby’s opening comments on the Genoa bridge collapse sounded more like an advert for a personal injury claim. Truly nauseating. He should be sacked #itvnews.”

Dan Patrick Joe also said: “I’m not one to sign a petition but can someone start one to get @tombradby off @itvnews because that intro to the motorway disaster in Italy was disgusting.”

Ofcom have been approached by the Standard to ask if the news broadcast received any complaints from members of the public about the delivery.

Tuesday’s bridge collapse has been called an “immense tragedy” by Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte.

At least 39 people were killed and many more injured when the bridge came crashing down.

Between 30 and 35 cars and three heavy trucks were involved in the tragedy including those crushed by huge slabs of falling concrete, officials said.