The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore partially collapsed early Tuesday morning after a container ship collided with it, leading to multiple individuals believed to have fallen into the water below.
The bridge, a crucial artery carrying Interstate 695 across the Patapsco River, faced this unprecedented incident southeast of the Baltimore metropolitan area.
The collision occurred around 1:35 a.m. local time, according to a Baltimore City police spokesperson. Details are still emerging, but it appears a large container ship struck the bridge, causing significant damage. Baltimore Fire Department Battalion Chief Glenn Kukucka revealed that there were personnel on the bridge at the time of the collision.
“This is a very large incident, it involves a very large footprint,” remarked Baltimore City Fire Department Chief James W. Wallace during a press briefing.
As of now, it is suspected that up to seven people have fallen into the water. Two individuals have been rescued, with one in critical condition and transported to a trauma center. Chief Wallace disclosed that sonar scans detected submerged vehicles, although the exact number remains undisclosed.
The rescue operation is facing challenges due to darkness and water temperature conditions, Chief Wallace added. “The latest information we have on the crew of the ship is that they still are on board of the ship,” he stated, emphasizing that a damage assessment of the vessel must be completed before rescue agents can board. Regarding potential technical impairments to the ship, Chief Wallace said, “We do not have that information.”
Authorities stressed that there is no indication of terrorism or intentional harm. “There is absolutely no indication that there was any terrorism, that this was done on purpose,” a Baltimore police spokesperson stated during the briefing.
The bridge, completed in 1977, was named after Francis Scott Key, whose poem inspired the U.S. national anthem.
The U.S. Coast Guard has identified the vessel involved in the collision as the 948-ft DALI vessel. “USCG confirms the ship is the 948-ft DALI vessel. USCG has deployed three response boats, and pollution responders are en route from the Sector Maryland-National Capital Region,” stated the U.S. Coast Guard’s Matthew West.
The container vessel is under the management of Synergy Marine Group, which confirmed that all 22 crew members, including two pilots, are safe. The exact cause of the incident is still under investigation.
Maersk, the charterer of the vessel, confirmed its involvement. “We can confirm that the container vessel ‘DALI’, operated by charter vessel company Synergy Group, is time chartered by Maersk and is carrying Maersk customers’ cargo. No Maersk crew and personnel were onboard the vessel,” stated Maersk.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore has pledged full cooperation with the U.S. Coast Guard in its investigations. Meanwhile, emergency personnel remain at the scene of the bridge collapse. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore declared a State of Emergency and is coordinating with federal agencies to provide necessary resources.
As investigations continue, our thoughts are with the individuals affected by this tragic event, and we will keep you updated with any developments.
(Source: CNN | WBAL-TV | USA Today)
