In a shocking incident, the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed overnight due to a ship strike, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority. Dramatic footage circulating online captures the horrifying moment when the entire structure breaks apart and plunges into the waters below. The catastrophic collapse occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Tuesday morning.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge, carrying the Baltimore Beltway\Interstate 695 over the Patapsco River, is a crucial transportation artery in the region. The collapse has prompted a massive emergency response, with volunteer firefighters from the Volunteer Swift Water Team and the Harford County Department of Emergency Services’ Special Operations Team assisting the Unified Command at the scene.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott and other state and local officials have responded swiftly, expressing their awareness of the situation and their commitment to coordinating rescue and recovery efforts. In a statement, Mayor Scott said, “I’m aware of and en route to the incident at the Key Bridge. I have been in contact with Baltimore Fire Chief James Wallace, Gov. Wes Moore, and the county executives of Baltimore and Anne Arundel counties. Emergency personnel are on scene, and efforts are underway.”
Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski echoed the gravity of the situation, stating, “We are closely monitoring the ongoing situation at the Key Bridge. I remain in contact with our emergency response team as well as state and local partners, including Mayor Brandon Scott and Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman. Response efforts are ongoing. Our prayers remain with all those impacted.”
As the investigation into the cause of the collapse continues, the focus remains on search and rescue operations, with authorities working tirelessly to account for any potential casualties and provide assistance to those affected by this unprecedented disaster.
