In the early hours of Tuesday morning, Baltimore residents were shocked to witness the collapse of the iconic Francis Scott Key Memorial Bridge into the Patapsco River. The structure, a vital link across the water, succumbed overnight, leading to several vehicles plunging into the icy depths below. A massive rescue operation is currently in progress, with reports indicating that between seven and twenty individuals are battling the frigid waters.
The incident was reportedly triggered by a large container ship colliding with a bridge column around 1:30 a.m., according to Kevin Cartwright, a spokesperson for the fire department. Dramatic video footage, secured by WJZ, captures a fiery explosion at the moment of impact, highlighting the severity of the collision.
Local residents expressed their disbelief and shock over the event. One witness recounted to WJZ’s Mike Hellgren the intense sound of the collapse, which he described as akin to an earthquake, shaking his home vigorously. “It felt like my house was falling down,” he said, reflecting on the unexpected nature of the disaster. Having lived in the neighborhood for 57 years and witnessing the bridge’s construction, another resident lamented, “I can’t believe it’s gone.”
The repercussions of the collapse are anticipated to be significant. Concerns were raised about the immediate impact on local traffic and commerce, with one resident predicting severe disruptions. “The harbor’s blocked, we’re not going to get any more new car deliveries, and Amazon deliveries across the river will be delayed. The beltway will turn into a parking lot, and the tunnels will be overwhelmed,” he explained, outlining the potential logistical nightmares.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge, an integral part of I-695, spans the Patapsco River. In light of the collapse, officials are advising commuters to consider alternative routes such as I-95 or I-895. Responding to the incident are multiple agencies, including the Anne Arundel County Fire Department, the Baltimore County Fire Department, the Maryland Department of the Environment, and the Maryland Transit Authority.
Opened in 1977 and named after the author of the Star-Spangled Banner, the 1.6-mile-long bridge is one of three toll crossings of Baltimore’s Harbor. Its sudden demise not only disrupts daily commutes but also marks a significant moment in the city’s history, leaving a lasting impact on the community and its infrastructure.