Tragedy struck in Baltimore as the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed in the early hours of Tuesday, leaving six people presumed dead. The catastrophic event occurred when a cargo ship collided with the bridge around 1:30 a.m. ET.
According to officials, eight individuals were on the bridge at the time of the collapse. Two people were rescued, with one being discharged from the hospital. The Coast Guard has ceased its active search-and-rescue operation for the missing construction workers, transitioning to a different phase as hopes of finding them alive diminish.
Details of the Incident
The container vessel Dali, operated by Singapore-based Synergy Group and chartered by Danish shipping giant Maersk, collided with a support of the bridge, leading to its collapse. The National Transportation Safety Board is spearheading the investigation, focusing on nautical and vessel operations, safety records, and the bridge's structural integrity.
Recovery Efforts and Impact
Authorities are working to confirm the number of vehicles and individuals on the bridge during the collapse. Governor Wes Moore praised the swift actions that prevented further casualties, emphasizing the importance of safety measures.
The collapse is expected to have significant repercussions on supply chains, with Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg warning of disruptions until the channel reopens. Efforts are underway to redirect ships to alternative ports to mitigate trade disruptions.
Government Response and Future Plans
Vice President Kamala Harris and President Joe Biden have pledged federal support to rebuild the bridge and assist in search and rescue operations. The focus remains on investigating the bridge's construction and safety protocols to prevent future tragedies.
As the community mourns the lives lost in this tragic event, efforts continue to uncover the causes behind the bridge collapse and ensure the safety of infrastructure and transportation systems.
