Baltimore Bridge Collapses After Container Ship Collision, 6 Missing: Rescue Efforts Underway
A devastating incident unfolded early Tuesday in Baltimore as a major bridge collapsed following a collision with a container ship, sparking a frantic search and rescue operation for six missing individuals. The collapse occurred at the Francis Scott Key Bridge, southeast of the Baltimore metropolitan area, leaving authorities scrambling to assess the situation and provide assistance.
According to Paul Wiedefeld, Maryland’s transportation secretary, the collision resulted in two individuals being rescued, with one transported to a trauma center in serious condition. However, the fate of the missing individuals remains uncertain, as they may have fallen into the water during the collapse.
The bridge, which carries Interstate 695 across the Patapsco River, was struck by the container ship named DALI at approximately 1:30 a.m. ET. The collision occurred while contractors were conducting repair work on the bridge, adding to the complexity of the situation.
Despite the tragic circumstances, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore praised the quick response of the ship’s crew, who made a mayday call just before the crash, potentially preventing further casualties. However, the focus now remains on the ongoing search and rescue mission, with vessel traffic into and out of the Port of Baltimore suspended until further notice.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the incident, with a team of over 20 personnel on-site to gather information and assess the cause of the collapse. While details are still emerging, authorities have emphasized that there is no evidence to suggest terrorism as a factor in the incident.
As the search for the missing individuals continues, President Joe Biden has pledged full federal support for the rebuilding efforts, declaring his intention to cover the entire cost of rebuilding the bridge. Meanwhile, Maersk, the company that chartered the container ship involved in the collision, has mobilized its response service to cooperate with authorities in determining the cause of the incident.
With emergency personnel working tirelessly at the scene and a state of emergency declared in Maryland, the focus remains on providing aid to those affected by this tragic event and ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.
A devastating incident unfolded early Tuesday in Baltimore as a major bridge collapsed following a collision with a container ship, sparking a frantic search and rescue operation for six missing individuals. The collapse occurred at the Francis Scott Key Bridge, southeast of the Baltimore metropolitan area, leaving authorities scrambling to assess the situation and provide…