A container ship struck Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, USA, on Tuesday morning. Causing the bridge to collapse into the Patapsco River. Many vehicles fell into the river. The Coast Guard later reported that six people may have died. Maryland Governor Wes Moore declared a state of emergency, closing the Port of Baltimore. President Joe Biden announced federal funding to rebuild the bridge and reopen the port.
Here are the 10 key things we need to know about this Baltimore tragedy:
1. Massive Cargo Ship Crashed into Key Bridge:
A large cargo ship named Dali lost power and slammed into a support column of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday morning.
2. Bridge Collapsed, People Missing:
The impact caused a section of the bridge to collapse into the Patapsco River. Several people, including construction workers on the bridge, are missing and presumed dead.
3. Search and Rescue Underway:
A search and recovery mission is ongoing to find survivors and the bodies of those missing. Authorities are using sonar technology to search the debris field underwater.
4. Cause of Crash Under Investigation:
The cause of the crash is still under investigation. Initial reports suggest the cargo ship lost power before hitting the bridge.
5. No Terrorist Motive Suspected:
Officials say there is no evidence of a terrorist attack. As a precaution, the FBI is involved in the early stages of the investigation.
6. May Day Call Saves Life:
The Dali’s crew issued a mayday call after losing power, which officials say bought valuable time to stop traffic from entering the bridge, potentially saving many lives.
7. Bridge in Fair Condition Before Collapse:
The latest inspection report for the bridge gave it a passing grade. Although there were concerns about one specific column.
8. Major Economic Impact Expected:
The closure of the bridge is expected to have a significant impact on the Port of Baltimore and the economy of the region.
9. Cargo Ship Identified:
The cargo ship involved is called Dali and was heading to Sri Lanka from Baltimore. It is owned by a Singapore-based company and operated by a Danish shipping giant. All crew members on the ship were reported safe. They are all Indian nationals.
10. Environmental Concerns:
There are concerns about potential diesel fuel leaking from the cargo ship into the river. Though the extent of the leak is still unclear.
