Tragic Bridge Collapse in Maryland: 6 Workers Feared Dead
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In a horrifying incident, the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, experienced a catastrophic collapse in the early hours of March 26th. The tragedy occurred as the cargo ship Dali was passing through the bridge, suddenly losing control and crashing into one of the support pillars.
The 29-meter tall bridge came crashing down in an instant, causing multiple vehicles, including tractor-trailers and cars, as well as approximately 20 people, to plunge into the river.
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Meanwhile, the ship was engulfed in massive flames, with thick black smoke billowing into the air. The Maryland Transport Authority immediately suspended traffic at the Baltimore Port until further notice.
During a press conference, Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott described the scene as something out of an action movie, calling it an unimaginable tragedy.
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Mayor Scott also disclosed that rescue teams swiftly arrived at the site following the incident. They managed to rescue two individuals, one in critical condition and another with minor injuries who has since been discharged.
Unfortunately, six construction workers remain missing, and it is believed that they lost their lives in the collapse.
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The high aerial images captured at the scene reveal a chaotic aftermath, with metal beams scattered in disarray and twisted. Mayor Scott expressed doubt about finding any of the missing workers alive due to the water temperature and the time that has elapsed since the ship collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
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The cargo ship involved in the accident, named Dali, is owned by Grace Ocean Private Ltd and managed by the Synergy Marine Group based in Singapore. The container ship measures approximately 300 meters in length and 48 meters in width. At the time of the incident, it was traveling at a speed of around 8 nautical miles per hour (approximately 14.8 km/h) when it collided with the bridge.
In contrast, the Francis Scott Key Bridge is known as the largest bridge in Maryland, spanning 2.6 kilometers (1.6 miles) across the Patapsco River, leading to the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and loved ones of the victims affected by this tragic bridge collapse.
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