Major bridge collapses in Baltimore after cargo ship rams into pylon

A catastrophic event unfolded early Tuesday in Baltimore as a container ship collided with a major bridge, causing a section to collapse into the frigid waters below. Dramatic footage captured the 300-meter vessel striking the Francis Scott Key Bridge, leading to the steel structure buckling and crashing into the Patapsco River.

In the chaos that followed, vehicles and individuals were sent plunging into the river. Rescue efforts were quickly mobilized, with divers scouring the waters for survivors. The scene was described as reminiscent of an action movie, with twisted steel strewn across the ship’s deck and precarious stacks of containers adding to the danger.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott expressed profound sorrow over the incident, labeling it an “unthinkable tragedy” and emphasizing the importance of supporting the affected families. The collision, which occurred around 1:30 am, prompted a massive emergency response, with first responders working tirelessly despite the challenging conditions, including water temperatures of around 9 degrees Celsius.

While the exact cause of the disaster remained unknown, initial reports suggested a possible power failure onboard the ship. Authorities, however, dismissed terrorism as a factor. Governor Wes Moore declared a state of emergency to facilitate federal assistance, recognizing the severity of the situation.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge, a vital artery in Baltimore’s transportation network, carries millions of vehicles annually and serves as a crucial link in the region’s infrastructure. Its collapse could have significant economic repercussions, potentially disrupting access to the Port of Baltimore, one of the busiest ports in the United States.

As investigations into the incident unfolded, shipping giant Maersk expressed shock and solidarity with those affected. The vessel involved, the “DALI,” was en route to Colombo, Sri Lanka, carrying cargo belonging to Maersk customers. All crew members and pilots were reportedly safe, with rescue operations ongoing.

The aftermath of the bridge collapse underscored the importance of emergency preparedness and swift, coordinated responses to mitigate the impact of such disasters. As the community grappled with the aftermath, efforts focused on supporting the injured, accounting for missing individuals, and assessing the long-term implications for transportation and commerce in the region.