A dramatic incident unfolded in Baltimore as a ship collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing a section of the bridge to collapse into the water below. Rescue teams are currently engaged in efforts to locate and assist individuals affected by the disaster.
Initial reports suggest that seven people are being sought after the bridge collapse, with rescuers expanding their search to encompass up to 20 individuals believed to have been impacted by the incident. The collision, described as a “very significant crash,” has raised numerous questions surrounding the circumstances leading to the bridge’s collapse.
Baltimore Mayor Scott Cohen is en route to the Key Bridge area to assess the situation firsthand. The container ship involved in the collision, identified as the Singaporean vessel Dali, is reportedly listing on its side following the breach of its hull.
As rescue operations continue, concerns arise due to freezing temperatures and limited visibility at the site. With temperatures hovering around 30°F (-1°C), the challenging conditions add urgency to the search efforts.
According to Kevin Cartwright, director of communications for the Baltimore City Fire Department, collaboration with the US Coast Guard is underway, with a team of divers deployed in the river to conduct search and rescue operations.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the container ship lost power shortly after departing the Seagirt Marine Terminal in the Port of Baltimore, leading to the collision with one of the bridge support pillars. The unfolding situation underscores the importance of swift and coordinated response efforts to address the aftermath of this significant maritime incident.
