BALTIMORE: The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, suffered a catastrophic collapse following a collision with a ship, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority (MTA).
The incident occurred over the Patapsco River, prompting the MTA to issue warnings and close interstate lanes in both directions.
The MTA confirmed the bridge collapse on social media, attributing it to a ship strike and describing the area as an “active scene.” Drivers were advised to avoid the route and seek alternative paths to ensure safety.
Initial reports indicated the possibility of individuals being in the river following the collapse. Detective Niki Fennoy of the Baltimore Police Department confirmed receiving notifications about a partial bridge collapse and potential workers in the water.
The cause of the ship collision and subsequent bridge collapse is under investigation. MarineTraffic data revealed the presence of a Singapore-flagged container ship, the Dali, stopped under the bridge at the time of the incident.
Authorities are working to assess the extent of the damage and ensure the safety of individuals involved. The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge marks a significant transportation disruption and highlights the risks associated with maritime traffic in densely populated areas.
