Tragic Bridge Collapse in Baltimore Leaves Six Presumed Dead
In a devastating incident, a container ship collided with the iconic Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, leading to its collapse and leaving six individuals missing and presumed dead. The US Coast Guard has halted its search efforts and initiated a recovery operation as authorities grapple with the aftermath of the catastrophe.
Reports indicate that the bridge, spanning over 2.6 kilometers (1.6 miles), gave way when the vessel struck one of its supports while several vehicles were traversing it. The ship reportedly encountered a “power issue,” prompting a distress call just moments before the collision occurred.
A frantic search and rescue mission ensued, involving boats and helicopters scouring the waters for the missing individuals. Tragically, only two people were rescued, with one in critical condition.
Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath of the US Coast Guard conveyed that the harsh conditions of the water and the duration of time elapsed since the incident led authorities to presume the missing individuals as deceased.
The victims were part of a construction crew working on repairs to the bridge when the catastrophic collapse unfolded. The Singapore-flagged container ship, identified as Dali, collided with a support column of the 47-year-old bridge, causing it to buckle under the impact.
According to reports, the vessel experienced propulsion failure shortly after departing from Port Breeze en route to Colombo, Sri Lanka. The crew alerted Maryland transport officials of the impending collision, citing the power issue as a contributing factor.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore confirmed the ship’s power loss prior to the collision, underscoring the severity of the situation. Multiple vehicles, including large trucks, plunged into the water upon the bridge’s collapse.
Despite the tireless efforts of Baltimore fire department, the US Coast Guard, and other responding agencies, rescue operations have been hindered by challenging tidal conditions and freezing temperatures in the vicinity.
Expressing condolences, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott labeled the incident an “unthinkable tragedy” and emphasized the imperative of focusing on rescue efforts. State and federal authorities are conducting thorough investigations to determine the structural impact of the collapse and ascertain accountability.
Synergy Marine Group, the shipping company responsible for the vessel, reported that all 22 crew members, including two local port pilots, were safe and uninjured. They pledged full cooperation with ongoing investigations.
In response to the disaster, shipping giant Maersk, which chartered the vessel, expressed horror and solidarity with those affected, vowing support for recovery efforts.
US President Joe Biden pledged swift action, promising federal support for reconstruction efforts and the reopening of the port. He reiterated the imperative of prioritizing search and rescue operations and assured the nation that the federal government would bear the financial burden of the bridge’s restoration pending congressional approval.