Baltimore Bridge Collapse: Authorities Intensify Search for Missing Workers, Others
Authorities in Baltimore are conducting a search for the bodies of six construction workers who were on the Francis Scott Key Bridge when it was struck by a cargo ship, causing it to collapse into the Patapsco River, Excel Magazine International has learnt.
Recalls the incident occurred early Tuesday when the Dali, a Singapore-flagged cargo vessel, lost power and collided with a support column of the bridge, which is known as the second-longest continuous truss bridge span globally.
Despite a timely “mayday” alert that enabled officials to halt traffic, eight construction workers fell into the river upon impact.
Two individuals were rescued initially before a comprehensive search operation involving divers, helicopters, and sonar from multiple agencies was initiated.
Excel Magazine International further gathered that the missing workers are presumed dead due to factors such as water temperature and elapsed time.
Recovery efforts recommenced Wednesday following a brief hiatus overnight due to challenging conditions including strong currents and low visibility.
Colonel Roland L. Butler Jr., Maryland State Police superintendent, expressed determination to support the families affected by the tragedy, stating, “We do not know where they are, but we intend to give our best effort to help these families find closure.”
Vice Admiral Peter Gautier, Deputy Commandant for Operations for the U.S. Coast Guard, provided details regarding the cargo ship, indicating that while the Dali was carrying 4,700 cargo containers, only two fell into the river, neither containing hazardous materials.
He reassured the public that the remaining containers aboard pose no threat.
Excel Magazine International, however, observes that eeather conditions, particularly scattered showers across Maryland and the Northeast, may hinder the ongoing recovery effort, with forecasts suggesting worsening conditions on Thursday due to an approaching storm system.
