Baltimore is facing the possibility of a “mass casualty” event following a ship’s collision with the Francis Scott Key Bridge early on Tuesday.
According to a fire official speaking to CNN, the collision resulted in the collapse of the iconic bridge and is thought to have caused approximately 20 individuals to fall into the frigid waters below.
At present, dive teams and search and rescue units are actively involved in endeavors to locate and aid individuals in the Patapsco River.
Kevin Cartwright, director of communications for the Baltimore City Fire Department, has reported that multiple vehicles, including a tractor-trailer, may have fallen into the water following the bridge collapse, according to reports.
Preliminary reports suggest that the ship, which was outbound from Baltimore, collided with a bridge column around 1:30 AM ET, triggering a rapid emergency response from local agencies.
Footage showed the moment the ship collided with the bridge. Credit: StreamTimeLive
Cartwright characterized the situation as a “dire emergency,” stressing the paramount importance of rescuing and recovering those impacted by the incident.
The presence of cargo or retainers hanging from the bridge has added complexity to rescue efforts, creating unsafe conditions for emergency responders. As a result, all traffic has been diverted, and the Maryland Transportation Authority has implemented necessary precautions.
In response to the unfolding crisis, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott conveyed his immediate involvement, mentioning that he was en route to the scene. Mayor Scott confirmed in a social media update that emergency personnel are on-site, and efforts are underway.
Video footage capturing the collision vividly depicts the ship’s impact on the bridge’s support column, causing a rapid collapse of sections into the river below. Plumes of smoke and fire billowed into the air as the bridge yielded to the force of the collision, with remnants engulfed in flames.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge, stretching 1.6 miles over the Patapsco River, plays a pivotal role in Baltimore’s transportation network, serving as a vital link of Interstate-695, commonly referred to as the Baltimore Beltway.
The bridge’s historical significance is deeply rooted in its namesake, Francis Scott Key, whose connection dates back to the War of 1812. Key famously penned the lyrics to the “Star-Spangled Banner” after witnessing the bombardment of Fort McHenry, lending enduring significance to the structure named in his honor.
