A container ship collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, causing a section of the bridge to collapse into the river below. Rescuers initially searched for seven individuals who were believed to have fallen into the water, with two individuals being pulled out, one in serious condition. The cargo ship crashed into one of the bridge supports during the night, causing a fire and thick smoke to billow from the vessel.
Authorities were conducting a search for potential victims in the water, with sonar indicating the presence of vehicles. The Baltimore Fire Department described the incident as a “developing mass casualty event,” with cargo seen dangling from the collapsed bridge. The ship involved, named “Dali,” hit a bridge pillar at 1:30 a.m. with two pilots in control, ultimately leading to the tragic event. The Maryland Governor declared a state of emergency and federal resources were being mobilized, with the FBI also on the scene.
Jagged remnants of the steel bridge frame could be seen protruding from the river, while the ship, flying under a Singapore flag, was en route from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka. This incident is a devastating blow to the busy harbor and port of Baltimore, and brings to mind previous transportation disasters in the city, such as a hazardous material train derailment in 2001. The tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge will require thorough investigation and recovery efforts in the coming days.