Rescue and recovery efforts are underway after a large container ship smashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore and destroyed it early Tuesday; the ship reportedly lost propulsion before slamming into the bridge resulting in a total collapse.
From The New York Post:
At least 20 people in seven vehicles are believed to be missing, according to authorities.
Horrifying footage shows the bridge crumbling after the Dali, a Singapore-flagged vessel heading to Sri Lanka, crashed into the central part of the structure around 1:40 a.m.
The tragedy was declared a mass-casualty event, and numerous vehicles — including a tractor-trailer rig — were seen plunging into the frigid Patapsco River as the steel arches and roadway tumbled into the water.
The ship also caught fire, sending thick, black smoke billowing across the busy harbor.
Two people were pulled from the river by rescuers. One did not need medical attention, but one was in critical condition, officials said.
…
Two pilots aboard the ship, as well as 22 Indian crew members, “have been accounted for and there are no reports of any injuries,” said Singapore-based Synergy Marine Group, the company operating the vessel.
The company said it is investigating the cause of the disaster and cooperating with authorities.
“This is an unthinkable tragedy,” Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott said from the scene soon after a state of emergency was declared.
This story is developing…
Ship lost propulsion before it smashed into Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge; 20 people missing https://t.co/1ePlp2KAv6 via @nypost
— Bo Snerdley (@BoSnerdley) March 26, 2024
Thank you for visiting