The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed in the early hours of Tuesday after a support column was struck by a large container ship that had lost power, causing vehicles and individuals to fall into the Patapsco River, authorities reported.
Six individuals from a construction crew, who were filling potholes on the bridge at the time, remain missing, while two others were rescued.
The scene is described as an ongoing search and rescue operation involving the Coast Guard.
The ship involved, the Singapore-flagged Dali, operated by Synergy Group and chartered by Maersk, experienced a power loss before the collision.
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore declared a state of emergency and praised rescue efforts while noting the cooperation with federal resources.
The collapse prompted a halt in shipping through the Port of Baltimore, with traffic diverted from the bridge to other routes.
The incident is under investigation by multiple agencies, including the National Transportation Safety Board.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott labeled the collapse as an “unthinkable tragedy,” emphasizing the need for prayers for those affected and gratitude towards first responders.
