The catastrophic event occurred when the container ship DALI, a 948-foot vessel, collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing a significant portion of the bridge to collapse into the Patapsco River. This incident took place early Tuesday morning and has been described as a “developing mass casualty event” by authorities.
Rescue Efforts
A large-scale search and rescue operation is underway for six construction workers who were reported to be on the bridge at the time of the collapse. Two individuals have been rescued from the water, with one suffering serious injuries. The search is complicated by the rising tides, and efforts will continue until divers reach the "non-survivability point".
Eyewitness Accounts
Witnesses have expressed concerns about the impact this disaster will have on transportation and the city’s infrastructure needs. The collapse was captured on video, showing the moment the DALI struck the bridge’s support column.
Ship and Crew Details
The DALI was under the guidance of local pilots at the time of the accident. The ship management company, Synergy Marine Group, stated that all 22 crew members are accounted for, and there have been no reports of injuries or pollution resulting from the crash. The vessel was en route from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Government Response
Maryland’s governor has declared a state of emergency in response to the bridge collapse. The bridge is a crucial part of the I-695, an artery of Interstate 95, which is a major highway running north-south along the Eastern seaboard.
This incident has raised questions about maritime safety and the integrity of infrastructure, and investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the collision. The community is awaiting further updates as rescue operations and assessments continue.