Bridge Collapses After Ship Collision
In a harrowing incident early Tuesday morning, a massive container ship collided with a bridge in Baltimore, leading to catastrophic damage and multiple vehicles falling into the river. This 948-foot vessel, bearing the Singapore flag, struck the four-lane structure, which is a critical part of the U.S. port infrastructure in Baltimore, in the early hours before dawn. The impact caused significant portions of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which spans 1.6 miles over the Patapsco River, to collapse into the chilly waters below.
Rescue operations commenced immediately, with teams working diligently to retrieve survivors from the debris. Authorities confirmed the rescue of two individuals, one of whom is in a critical condition, and continued the search for others amidst the wreckage. The exact number of people affected remains uncertain, with officials estimating at least seven individuals were involved.
Federal and Local Response
The event prompted an immediate reaction from local and federal authorities. The U.S. Coast Guard launched a search and rescue operation following the collapse, reported at 1:27 a.m. President Joe Biden has been informed of the situation, with officials indicating that the collision appears to be accidental.
Paul Wiedefeld, Maryland’s Secretary of Transportation, highlighted the efforts to locate vehicles that sonar technology detected beneath the water’s surface. The area’s depth is reported to be around 50 feet, complicating recovery efforts.
Eyewitnesses recounted the shock of witnessing the bridge’s destruction. Jayme Krause, a local worker, described the moment she realized the extent of the damage, likening the scene to something out of an action movie.
Impact and Investigations
The collision has significant implications for Baltimore and its port, a major hub for automobile shipments and other commodities in the United States. The port, known for handling over 750,000 vehicles in 2022 alone, faces potential disruptions that could affect supply chains extensively.
Authorities identified the vessel involved as the Dali, managed by Synergy Marine Corp. The company stated that all crew members are accounted for, with no injuries reported. Investigations into the cause of the collision, including reports of the ship losing propulsion, are ongoing.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott described the aftermath as a scene of chaos, with twisted metal and debris illustrating the force of the impact. The Baltimore City Fire Department anticipates a prolonged recovery operation, indicating the gravity of this disaster.
This incident marks a significant event in U.S. maritime history, drawing comparisons to previous bridge collapses and highlighting the risks associated with maritime and infrastructure safety. Maryland Governor Wes Moore has declared a state of emergency to facilitate the response, underscoring the seriousness of the situation and the need for a thorough investigation and recovery effort.