Statue of Liberty’s massive replica in Brazil collapses after severe storm; Watch viral video
This is not the first time such an incident has taken place in Brazil, involving the Havan statue. Earlier, there was a similar collapse during a cyclone in Capao da Canoa in 2021.
A massive replica of the Statue of Liberty outside a Havan in Guaíba, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, collapsed amid a powerful storm that struck southern Brazil on December 15, 2025. The 24-metre replica fell as strong winds exceeding 90km/hr swept through the region; however, no injuries or property damage were reported despite the intensity. The dramatic visuals were captured and shared widely on social media.
Brazil’s Statue of Liberty collapsed: What happened?
The video shows the statue tilting and collapsing due to strong gusty winds. The vehicles parked there were moved away from the area, preventing damage. Guaíba Mayor Marcelo Maranata confirmed the incident on social media. Havan, a major Brazilian retail chain, is known for installing large replicas of the Statue of Liberty outside many of its stores. This statue was installed in 2020. Havan said the Statue of Liberty replica met engineering and safety standards, including required technical certifications. The company has now launched an internal investigation to determine why the structure failed under extreme weather conditions. “The area was immediately isolated by the company, following all safety protocols,” Havan said in a statement. The retailer added that debris removal began within hours and that store operations were not interrupted.
Social media reacts
Social media had a field day reacting to the fallen Statue of Liberty replica in Brazil. “Sums up the world at the moment”, “Right next to a McDonald’s adds to the American ethos”, “Statue of Liberty dropping in front of a McDonald’s. Iconic”, “Selling souvenirs of fallen statue: $50”, “I’m not sure if a Statue of Liberty replica in a parking lot next to a McDonald’s is the most American thing I’ve ever seen or treason. There is no middle ground” are some of the witty comments, users shared on social media.
Meanwhile, this is not the first time such an incident has taken place in Brazil, involving the Havan statue. Earlier, there was a similar collapse during a cyclone in Capao da Canoa in 2021.
