In Baltimore, Maryland, USA, a major incident occurred as a bridge collapsed after being struck by a cargo ship. The Francis Scott Key Bridge, spanning the Patapsco River, collapsed into the water following the collision, as reported by the American network “Fox Baltimore” on Tuesday.
According to a public affairs officer Kimberly Reaves from the Coast Guard’s 5th District, multiple response units have been deployed for search and rescue missions, including small boats from Station Annapolis and Station Curtis Bay, as well as a helicopter from Air Station Atlantic City.
Reports indicate that vehicles fell into the river during the collapse. Kevin Cartwright, spokesperson for the Baltimore City Fire Department, stated that as many as 20 people could be in the river, along with numerous vehicles, including possibly a tractor-trailer.
The incident occurred around 1:30 am, when a vessel traveling outbound from Baltimore struck a column on the bridge, causing it to collapse. Matthew West, a petty officer first class for the Coast Guard in Baltimore, reported that the Dali, a 948-foot Singapore-flagged cargo ship, hit the bridge while heading for Colombo, Sri Lanka.
The manager of the Dali, Synergy Marine Group, confirmed the collision with one of the bridge’s pillars, noting that all crew members, including the two pilots, were safe. Although the exact cause is yet to be determined, the Dali has initiated its qualified individual incident response service.
Built in 1977, the Francis Scott Key Bridge is named after the author of the American national anthem, The Star-Spangled Banner. It serves as a vital artery for shipping on the US’s east coast, connecting Interstate 695.
