Bridge collapses after ship rams into it; people, vehicles fall into river in US

Urgent Rescue Efforts Underway

In Baltimore, a catastrophic incident unfolded in the early hours of Tuesday morning as a section of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed following a collision with a large boat. The collision resulted in multiple vehicles plunging into the Patapsco River, prompting a swift and urgent response from authorities to rescue those affected.

According to reports, a significant vessel collided with the bridge, igniting a fire before ultimately sinking into the river. The impact of the collision caused several vehicles to plummet into the water below, compounding the severity of the situation. Video footage posted on social media captured the chaos and destruction wrought by the collision, illustrating the magnitude of the incident.

In response to the crisis, the Maryland Transportation Authority announced the closure of all lanes in both directions on the I-695 Key Bridge, diverting traffic to alternative routes. The closure was deemed necessary to facilitate emergency response efforts and ensure the safety of motorists in the vicinity.

Mayor Brandon M. Scott and Baltimore County Executive Johnny Olszewski Jr. issued statements confirming the deployment of emergency personnel to the scene and the initiation of rescue operations. The priority for responders was to locate and rescue individuals who had fallen into the water amidst the wreckage.

Kevin Cartwright, Director of Communications for the Baltimore Fire Department, provided updates on the situation, indicating that emergency responders were actively searching for approximately seven individuals believed to be in the water. The incident, which occurred around 1:30 am, prompted a flurry of 911 calls reporting the collision and subsequent bridge collapse.

Cartwright described the event as a "developing mass casualty event," emphasizing the urgency and gravity of the situation. He noted the presence of cargo or retainers hanging from the bridge, posing additional risks to responders and complicating rescue efforts. Consequently, emergency personnel proceeded with caution to mitigate further hazards and ensure the safety of all involved.

The unfolding crisis prompted a coordinated response from multiple agencies, highlighting the collaborative efforts to address the emergency swiftly and effectively. Despite the challenges posed by the collapsed bridge and submerged vehicles, responders remained steadfast in their commitment to rescue and recover those impacted by the tragedy.

As the rescue operation continued, authorities urged caution and vigilance among the public, emphasizing the severity of the situation and the need for cooperation to facilitate rescue efforts. The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge served as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with maritime accidents and the critical importance of robust emergency response protocols.

In the aftermath of the incident, investigations were expected to determine the cause of the collision and assess the extent of the damage inflicted. Meanwhile, efforts to rescue and assist those affected remained ongoing, underscoring the resilience and determination of emergency responders in the face of adversity.