Baltimore, Maryland (March 26, 2024) – In a tragic event that unfolded early Tuesday morning, Baltimore’s historic Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after being struck by a large cargo ship. The incident, which occurred around 1:30 am EDT, resulted in the destruction of a major portion of the bridge and sent sections plunging into the Patapsco River.
Cause of the Collapse
The cause of the accident is attributed to the cargo ship, identified as the “Dali,” losing power and colliding with a key support pillar of the bridge. A mayday call was reportedly issued by the ship’s crew moments before the impact, allowing authorities to partially restrict bridge traffic. Thankfully, this swift action likely prevented further casualties.
Search and Rescue Efforts
Six construction workers who were reportedly conducting maintenance on the bridge at the time of the collapse are presumed dead. Search and rescue operations transitioned into a recovery effort by Tuesday evening. Two people were rescued from the water following the incident, with one sustaining critical injuries.
Impact and Aftermath
The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge is a major blow to Baltimore’s infrastructure and economy. The bridge serves as a vital artery for both vehicular and maritime traffic, and its closure will cause significant disruptions. Governor Wes Moore of Maryland declared a state of emergency to facilitate rescue efforts and expedite the planning for reconstruction.
This tragic incident highlights the importance of maritime safety protocols and bridge maintenance. Investigations are currently underway to determine the cause of the power failure on the cargo ship and explore all contributing factors. The city of Baltimore grieves the loss of life and faces the immense challenge of rebuilding this essential bridge.