Which U.S. bridge across Tampa Bay collapsed in 1980 after being struck by the ship Summit Venture?

The Sunshine Skyway Bridge is the U.S. bridge across Tampa Bay whose original southbound span collapsed in 1980 after being struck by the ship Summit Venture.

On May 9, 1980, a severe storm caused the bulk carrier Summit Venture to lose visibility and collide with a support of the bridge. A section of roadway fell into the bay, killing 35 people, including motorists and a bus passenger. The tragedy led to major changes in bridge protection and design practice.

A replacement cable-stayed bridge opened in 1987. Its tall central pylons and bright yellow cables became the defining appearance associated with the modern Sunshine Skyway. The original surviving northbound span was later incorporated into the rebuilt crossing system.

The event is sometimes confused with the 1940 Tacoma Narrows Bridge collapse, which was caused by wind-induced oscillation rather than a ship collision.