Baltimore was rocked by a major bridge collapse early Tuesday after a container ship struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing several vehicles to plunge into the water below and sparking a frantic search for survivors. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore declared a state of emergency and assured the public that the incident was likely an accident and not an act of terrorism.
The cargo ship Dali reported a “power issue” and issued a mayday before crashing into a bridge support at a speed of around nine miles per hour. Rescue crews discovered at least five vehicles submerged in the water, with several workers still missing. Fortunately, two individuals were rescued and efforts were ongoing to find others.
The collapse of the bridge, a vital part of Interstate 695 over the Patapsco River, resulted in the closure of one of the nation’s busiest ports. The Port of Baltimore handles a significant amount of car imports and exports, making it a crucial hub for trade in the region. President Joe Biden has pledged federal support to rebuild the bridge and restore operations at the port.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of maritime travel, especially in light of a similar accident involving the Dali in Belgium several years ago. The ship, operated by Synergy Group, had two port pilots at the helm during the crash in Baltimore.
As authorities work to investigate the cause of the bridge collapse, families anxiously await news of their loved ones who were working on the structure at the time of the accident. The community has come together to support those affected and show appreciation for the heroic efforts of first responders and bystanders who helped prevent further casualties.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge, named after the author of the American national anthem, has been a key transportation route in Baltimore since its completion in 1977. With thousands of vehicles traveling across it daily, the collapse has had a significant impact on the region’s traffic and economy.
While the road to recovery will be long, state officials are committed to ensuring the safety and stability of the bridge and the port. Engineers are assessing the damage, and plans are in place to rebuild and reopen these crucial infrastructure components. The people of Baltimore can expect continued support and assistance as the community works together to overcome this tragedy and rebuild stronger than before.
Read More Breaking News
