Baltimore Bridge Collapse: Explore the circumstances surrounding the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge on March 26, 2024, caused by a collision with a container ship. Delve into the details of the incident, casualties, and ongoing investigations.
Collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge:
On March 26, 2024, at 01:28 EDT (05:28 UTC), the Francis Scott Key Bridge, a vital transportation artery in Baltimore, Maryland, collapsed after being struck by the Singapore-flagged container ship Dali. The collapse occurred due to the loss of propulsion on the ship, leading to an allision with one of the bridge’s support pillars. As a result, the main spans of the bridge crumbled, causing significant damage and disruption.
Casualties and injuries:
Tragically, the collapse caused casualties and injuries. Six workers of a construction crew working on the roads have been reported missing and feared dead. In addition, at least one person was pulled from the river, one refused medical treatment, and another was taken to a hospital in critical condition. The catastrophe has had a significant impact on the community, with family and loved ones of the victims dealing with the devastating loss and injuries.
Background of the Francis Scott Key Bridge:
The Francis Scott Key Bridge, originally known as the Outer Harbor Crossing, was a steel arch-shaped continuous truss bridge that opened in 1977. It served as a vital shipping route in the Port of Baltimore, crossing the Patapsco River. The bridge carried four lanes of Interstate 695, a beltway around Baltimore, and was heavily utilized by approximately 34,000 vehicles each day, highlighting its significance to the region’s transportation network.
Involvement of MV Dali:
The Singapore-flagged container ship MV Dali, which collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, had recently traveled from Panama to the United States. After arriving in New York on March 19, 2024, the ship made its way to the Virginia International Gateway in Portsmouth before departing for Baltimore on March 22 and arriving on March 23. The collision with the bridge has raised questions about navigation and safety protocols, prompting authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Response and Investigation:
In the wake of the collapse, authorities have launched a thorough investigation to determine the root causes of the tragedy. President Joe Biden has pledged support for Baltimore during this challenging time, emphasizing the need for swift action to address the aftermath and prevent similar incidents in the future. The investigation aims to provide answers to affected families and communities while ensuring accountability and safety in transportation infrastructure.
