A major bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, partially collapsed early on Tuesday morning after being struck by a container ship, potentially causing individuals to be in the river below, as per authorities. The Francis Scott Key Bridge, a significant steel structure carrying Interstate 695 over the Patapsco River, was the site of the incident. The U.S. Coast Guard confirmed that a 948-foot vessel named DALI, sailing under a Singaporean flag, collided with the bridge at 1:27 a.m. ET, prompting an emergency response.
The Maryland Transport Authority closed the I-695 due to the bridge’s collapse as a result of a “ship strike,” according to officials. Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski, Jr. expressed his awareness of the situation and coordinated with local officials, urging for prayers for those impacted. Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott was en route to the scene, stating that emergency personnel were working on resolving the issue. The visuals shared on social media depicted the bridge wreckage emerging from the river, emphasizing the magnitude of the collision between the vessel and the structure.
The Key Bridge, constructed in 1977 and named after the author of the American national anthem, stretches over 8,500 feet and features a main section spanning 1,200 feet. Recognized as one of the longest continuous truss bridges globally upon its completion, the bridge is a crucial part of Baltimore’s infrastructure. As emergency response agencies work to gather more details, the incident serves as a reminder of the unexpected challenges posed by maritime transportation on critical public infrastructure.