Baltimore Bridge Collapses After Container Ship Collision
In a dramatic and devastating event, a major bridge in Baltimore collapsed early Tuesday after being struck by a container ship, causing several vehicles to plunge into the river below.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge was hit by the vessel, leading to the roadway breaking apart and falling into the water, as captured in a video posted on social media. The ship also caught fire and eventually sank.
Rescuers are currently engaged in searching for individuals in the water, with two people already being pulled out alive, one in serious condition, according to Baltimore Fire Chief James Wallace. The search operation may potentially involve up to seven people, although this number is subject to change.
“This is a dire emergency,” stated Kevin Cartwright, director of communications for the Baltimore Fire Department. “Our primary focus right now is on the rescue and recovery of individuals involved in this tragic incident.”
Emergency responders are working on retrieving any individuals who may still be in the water, with some cargo seen dangling from the collapsed bridge structure. Cartwright described the situation as a “developing mass casualty event.”
The Francis Scott Key Bridge, which was opened in 1977, spans the Patapsco River and serves as a crucial link for shipping activities on the East Coast. It is named after the author of “The Star-Spangled Banner.”
Reports indicated that a ship departing from Baltimore struck a column on the bridge around 1:30 am, with several vehicles, including a tractor-trailer truck, present on the bridge at the time of the collision.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott and Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski Jr. confirmed that emergency personnel were on the scene and engaged in rescue operations.
