Un tragic event shook the city of Baltimore, Maryland when the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed following impact with a large container ship. The accident involved several cars and triggered an immediate mobilization of the rescue forces.
At the moment, information on the victims and injured is still being ascertained.
Video of the Baltimore Bridge collapse
The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland which crosses the Patapsco River has reportedly collapsed within the last few minutes after being struck by a Large Container Ship; a Mass Casualty Incident has been declared with over a Dozen Cars and many Individuals said to… pic.twitter.com/SsPMU8Mjph
- OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) March 26, 2024
What happened and how the collapse occurred: the impact with the ship
The dynamics of the accident saw the ship, identified as "From there" and flying the flag of Singapore, violently strike one of the bridge supports. A video released on social media captured the exact moment of impact, showing the dramatic consequences that led to the collapse of the structure. It appears the ship was on fire before impact, which suggests that there were already serious problems before the clash.
Emergency teams, alerted around 1am, immediately took action to manage the situation.
Are there any deaths or injuries in the Baltimore bridge collapse?
No clear information is available at the moment, given the time (1 am) the bridge had little traffic but it is certain that there were vehicles in transit during the collapse. Vehicles that fell into the water, so it is certain that there are injuries but the extent of their number is not clear nor if there are victims.
Statements from the authorities
The collapse of the bridge had significant repercussions onsurrounding area, With the Maryland Transportation Authority which promptly closed all traffic lanes and diverted routes. The bridge, essential for mobility in the Baltimore metropolitan area, now represents a critical point that must be addressed to restore normality.
All lanes closed both directions for accident on I-695 Key Bridge. Traffic is being discovered. #MDTraffic
— MDTA (@TheMDTA) March 26, 2024
Il Mayor Brandon Scott and other institutional figures were immediately mobilised, reaching the site of the accident and coordinating the rescue operations.
I'm aware of and en route to the accident at the Key Bridge. I have been in contact with @BaltimoreFire Chief Wallace, @GovWesMoore @JohnnyOJrand @AACoExec. Emergency personnel are on scene, and efforts are underway.
— Brandon M. Scott (@MayorBMScott) March 26, 2024