In the early hours of a Tuesday morning, the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore met a catastrophic fate when it was struck by a large container ship that had lost power, resulting in a dramatic collapse. This incident sent vehicles and individuals plummeting into the icy waters of the Patapsco River below.
In response to this disaster, Maryland’s Governor, Wes Moore, promptly declared a state of emergency. He expressed his gratitude towards the courageous men and women spearheading the rescue operations and extended his prayers for the safety of all involved.
The incident was first brought to light around 1:30 a.m. when emergency calls flooded the local fire department, reporting that a vessel had collided with one of the bridge’s columns. Among the vehicles caught on the bridge at the time of the incident was a large tractor-trailer, highlighting the severity of the situation.
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas took to social media to address the incident, assuring the public that the situation was being closely monitored. He also clarified that there were no indications suggesting the act was intentional.
The cargo ship involved, identified as the Singapore-flagged Dali, was reportedly en route to Sri Lanka. The collision left the bridge in ruins, a stark reminder of the event’s severity.
Authorities have confirmed that all crew members aboard the ship are accounted for, with no injuries reported among them. The ship’s owner, Synergy Marine Group, is still investigating the cause of the collision.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge, a vital artery for the Baltimore area, sees tens of thousands of commuters daily. Its collapse has significantly impacted local traffic, with authorities urging drivers to seek alternative routes.
Efforts to understand the full scope of the collapse are ongoing, with rescue operations continuing in the aftermath. U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has pledged federal support to aid in the response and recovery efforts.
The bridge, named after the author of the U.S. national anthem, has stood as a significant landmark since its opening in 1977. Its collapse is not only a logistical nightmare but also a historical loss.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, the focus remains on the rescue efforts and the well-being of those affected. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of infrastructure safety and the unpredictable nature of such disasters.