BALTIMORE, Md. — A grave disaster struck in the early hours of Tuesday when a container ship collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, leading to a catastrophic collapse that sent a significant portion of Interstate 695 tumbling into the Patapsco River. This event, quickly escalated to a reported mass casualty situation, prompted Maryland Governor Wes Moore to declare a state of emergency. The collapse of what is commonly known as Baltimore’s Star-Spangled Banner Bridge not only disrupts a vital transportation route but also represents a profound tragedy for the city and the state at large.
The Maryland Transportation Authority reported that the Singapore-flagged vessel Dali struck the bridge around 1:30 a.m., causing the devastating collapse. The bridge, an integral part of the local and interstate transportation network and a symbol of Baltimore’s resilience and historical significance, now stands partially submerged, a stark testament to the disaster’s magnitude.
Kevin Cartwright, the Baltimore Fire Department’s communications director, outlined the severity of the situation, describing it as a “developing mass casualty event.” Emergency response teams have been mobilized to search for at least seven individuals believed to be in the water, a task made more challenging by the cold river temperatures and the critical need for speed in the rescue operations.
The repercussions of this disaster extend far beyond the immediate impact on traffic and commerce. Interstate 695 is a lifeline for the region, facilitating daily commutes and commercial activities. Its collapse has not only caused significant logistical challenges but also struck a blow to the community’s heart. In response, Governor Moore has assured the public that a coordinated effort is underway among federal, state, and local agencies to manage the crisis and support the recovery process.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this unprecedented disaster, all eyes are on the scheduled press conference at 6:15 a.m. at 3300 Fort Armstead Road, where officials are expected to provide updates on the rescue operations and the steps forward. This briefing will be a crucial moment for Baltimore and Maryland, as authorities and the public seek clarity and guidance through the recovery from this devastating event.
