Massive Cargo Ship Collides with Bridge in Baltimore Harbor, Killing Six Construction Workers
In a tragic incident that shocked the nation, a massive cargo ship named the Dali collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore harbor, causing a catastrophic collapse. The vessel, nearly three football fields long and stacked high with thousands of containers, lost power and propulsion just half an hour into its journey to Sri Lanka.
As the ship bore down on the bridge, the crew urgently reported the power outage to local authorities. In a horrifying scene captured on camera, the ship smashed into a pillar of the bridge, causing the southern and central spans to collapse within seconds. Tragically, at least six construction workers who were on the bridge at the time are presumed dead, with only two workers rescued from the frigid waters of the Patapsco River.
President Biden announced the indefinite closure of the Port of Baltimore, a major hub for vehicle shipments in the United States. The collapse of the 1.6-mile Key Bridge, a crucial artery for transportation in the region, has raised questions about the safety of maritime navigation and bridge design.
Experts are investigating the cause of the accident, with initial reports suggesting a complete blackout on the ship led to the collision. The ship, which had two pilots onboard, was operating under the Singaporean flag and had a history of minor incidents and deficiencies related to propulsion machinery.
The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge has drawn comparisons to past bridge disasters in U.S. history, highlighting the need for improved safety measures in maritime and infrastructure planning. As the investigation continues, the nation mourns the loss of life and the impact of this tragic event on the local community.
