Rescue operations are underway after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed in Baltimore. Two people were rescued from the water, many are missing. Maryland's governor declared a state of emergency.
Rescue workers search for people in the water after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed in Baltimore. According to the local fire department, at least seven people are currently missing – up to 20 were previously reported. Two people have already been rescued, as fire chief James Wallace announced at a press conference: One person is said to be in life-threatening condition, the other has refused medical help.
It is unclear what led to the cargo ship “Dali” colliding with a pillar at around 1:30 a.m. local time (6:30 a.m. German time). According to the authorities, there is no indication of a terrorist background. There is also “no evidence” that the ship's captain could have provoked the accident, said Baltimore Police Commissioner Richard Worley. The ABC News channel, citing US intelligence, reported that the ship lost propulsion while leaving the port of Baltimore – the crew then reported that it was unable to maneuver.
Ship's crew apparently fine
The damaged cointainer ship “Dali” belongs to the charter company Synergy Marine Group from Singapore. The Danish shipping company Maersk said it had chartered the “Dali” for transport from Baltimore to Colombo in Sri Lanka. According to the information, the crew is still on board and is said to be complete and well.
Fire Chief Wallace said reports that there were workers on the bridge at the time of the collision are being investigated. A video circulated on social networks showing several vehicles falling into the water when the four-lane highway bridge collapsed.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott spoke of an “unbelievable tragedy” and terrible images “like something out of an action movie.” The main thing now must be to find the missing people and to support those affected and their families
Help requested from Washington
The governor of the US state of Maryland, Wes Moore, declared a state of emergency. He thanked the emergency services for their work on Platform
Interstate 695 via Patapsco
The approximately 2.57 kilometer long bridge was completed in 1977. It is a four-lane road bridge over which the Interstate 695 highway, called the “Baltimore Beltway”, runs. The bridge connects the Hawkins Point and Dundalk neighborhoods, which are separated by the Patapsco River.
After the bridge collapsed, more than 40 ships had to remain in the port, which is considered the busiest US port for automobile transport. At least 30 ships were on their way to Baltimore. It is unclear whether and when they can arrive.
Katrin Brand, ARD Washington, tagesschau, March 26, 2024 11:25 a.m
