Baltimore City Fire Chief James Wallace addressed reporters Tuesday morning, revealing an ongoing search and rescue operation following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The incident occurred after a column was struck by a large container ship, causing vehicles and individuals to plunge into the Patapsco River.
Wallace described the scene as “an active search and rescue,” indicating that up to seven individuals may be missing. Search efforts are being conducted both on the water and on the ship’s deck, with sonar-detecting vehicles submerged in the river. Two people have been rescued, with one in serious condition.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore declared a state of emergency, mobilizing federal resources for rescue operations. The vessel involved, the 948-foot Singapore-flagged cargo ship Dali, collided with the bridge en route from Baltimore to Colombo, Sri Lanka.
Mayor Brandon M. Scott and Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski Jr. urged support and prayers for those affected. U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg offered federal support, emphasizing the ongoing rescue efforts.
The collapse has resulted in the closure of all lanes on the Key Bridge, with traffic being diverted to alternate routes. The Patapsco River, a vital waterway serving the Port of Baltimore, underscores the significance of the bridge’s collapse.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge, named after the author of “The Star-Spangled Banner,” has been a crucial transportation link since its opening in 1977.
