Baltimore Key Bridge Collapse: Cargo Ship Collision Causes Major Traffic Disaster
A catastrophic event unfolded in Baltimore, Maryland, as the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed after a container ship collided with it, sending multiple vehicles plunging into the Patapsco River. The shocking incident has prompted a massive rescue operation, with emergency personnel working tirelessly to locate and aid those affected by the disaster.
The Baltimore fire department immediately sprang into action, launching a search for at least seven individuals believed to be in the water following the bridge's collapse. Reports indicated that a large vessel had crashed into the bridge, leading to a harrowing scene as vehicles plummeted into the river below. A video capturing the moment of impact revealed the ship striking one of the bridge's central supports, triggering a catastrophic collapse and igniting a blaze as thick plumes of smoke billowed into the air.
The aftermath of the disaster prompted the closure of all lanes in both directions on I-695 Key Bridge, with traffic being redirected as authorities assessed the extent of the damage. The Maryland Transportation Authority swiftly informed the public about the bridge collapse and emphasized the active nature of the scene.
Kevin Cartwright, the director of communications for the Baltimore fire department, confirmed that the distressing incident unfolded around 1:30 am, with a vessel outbound from Baltimore striking a column on the bridge, leading to its collapse. The focus immediately shifted to the urgent rescue and recovery efforts, with Cartwright describing the situation as a "developing mass casualty event." The presence of dangling cargo or retainers from the bridge further complicated the rescue operation, creating unsafe and unstable conditions.
In the midst of the chaos, Matthew West, a petty officer first class for the coastguard in Baltimore, detailed the coastguard's response to the impact, which involved the Dali, a 948ft Singapore-flagged cargo ship. The vessel had departed Baltimore en route to Colombo, Sri Lanka, and collided with the bridge shortly after its departure. While the exact cause of the incident remains under investigation, the manager of the Dali, Synergy Marine Group, confirmed the safety of all crew members and the initiation of an incident response service.
Amidst the chaos, Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott and County Executive Johnny Olszewski Jr. assured the public that emergency personnel were diligently working at the scene to carry out rescue efforts. The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, built in 1977, has not only disrupted traffic but also cast a shadow over the vital artery of the Patapsco River, a crucial transportation link for the Port of Baltimore and shipping activities along the US east coast.
News Agencies