The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore partially collapsed early Tuesday after colliding with a ship, leading to multiple individuals believed to have fallen into the water. Situated southeast of the Baltimore metropolitan area, the bridge carries Interstate 695.
Reported around 1:30 a.m. by police officials, a large container ship collided with the bridge overnight. Personnel were reportedly on the bridge at the time, confirmed by Baltimore Fire Department Battalion Chief Glenn Kukucka. The vessel sustained damage in the collision.
Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland fell. Pray for everyone involved 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/E4GA7CWOfM
— FearBuck (@FearedBuck) March 26, 2024
Describing the incident as significant, Baltimore City Fire Department Chief James W. Wallace noted up to seven individuals suspected to have fallen into the water. Two people were rescued, one transported to a trauma center in critical condition.
Although sonar scans detected submerged vehicles, the exact number was not disclosed. Chief Wallace highlighted darkness and water temperature conditions hindering rescue efforts.
Regarding the ship’s crew, Chief Wallace stated they remained on board, awaiting a damage assessment before rescue agents could board, emphasizing no indication of intentional wrongdoing or terrorism.
Completed in 1977 and named after Francis Scott Key, the bridge serves as a critical transportation link. The vessel involved in the collision, identified as the DALI vessel, accounted for all 22 crew members. Maersk, confirming chartering the vessel, closely follows investigations by authorities.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore declared a state of emergency, announcing efforts to deploy federal resources for rescue operations and assess the situation after the tragic bridge collapse.
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