Baltimore Bridge Snap: Search Intensifies for Missing Individuals

In a harrowing incident early Tuesday, a major bridge in Baltimore collapsed after being struck by a container ship, sparking a frantic search for several individuals. Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld confirmed that six people remain unaccounted for following the collapse at Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Efforts to locate survivors are underway, with multiple crews and boats deployed by the U.S. Coast Guard. Chief James Wallace of the Baltimore Fire Department detailed the utilization of divers, sonar, and infrared technologies in the search operation.

Initial reports indicate that workers engaged in pothole repair, not structural concerns, were present on the bridge during the collapse. Despite the absence of vehicles on the bridge stretch at the time of the incident, officials confirm the rescue of two individuals from the water.

Efforts to locate survivors are underway, with multiple crews and boats deployed by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Governor Wes Moore attributed the lack of vehicles to a timely mayday call issued by the ship’s crew, prompting the suspension of traffic on the bridge. Agencies responded to emergency calls reporting a ship collision with a bridge column around 1:40 a.m. ET.

The container ship, identified as the Dali, registered under a Singapore flag and chartered by Danish shipping giant Maersk, sustained a collision with the bridge pillar while en route from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka. Synergy Marine Group, the vessel’s owner, confirmed the incident, assuring the safety of all crew members and denying any reports of injuries.

While the cause of the collision remains under investigation, Baltimore Police Department Commissioner Richard Corley asserted that there is no indication of intentional contact with the bridge. Despite the dramatic nature of the collapse, the FBI has ruled out terrorism as a factor, following President Joe Biden’s briefing on the matter.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott described the event as “an unthinkable tragedy,” emphasizing the immediate priority of search and rescue efforts. As authorities assess the extent of damage and embark on investigations, the city braces for potential disruptions to transportation and shipping operations along the East Coast.