The historic bridge collapsed, spreading tragedy

In the early morning of March 26, 2024, part of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, a historic suspension bridge across the Patapsco River in Baltimore, Maryland, suddenly collapsed after colliding with the container ship “Dali”. The tragic accident caused many vehicles to fall into the river, killing 4 people and injuring 6 others.

The search and rescue journey is full of hardships

Immediately after the bridge collapse occurred, rescue forces were quickly present at the scene to search and rescue those in distress. The rescue operation took place in extremely difficult conditions due to fast flowing water and adverse weather. Thanks to the tireless efforts of rescue teams, two people on the bridge were saved. However, 4 other people, including 2 drivers and 2 bridge repair workers, did not survive.

The cause of the bridge collapse is still unknown

The exact cause of the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge is still under investigation. According to initial information,Just hours before the Tuesday morning commute was to get underway, the crew of a massive cargo ship leaving Baltimore harbor lost propulsion and control of the vessel, causing it to crash into a support column of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, triggering a catastrophic collapse of the 1.6-mile long span and sending vehicles and people into the water, officials said.

‘We’re with you,’ Biden tells Baltimore residents

During a press conference Tuesday afternoon from the White House, President Joe Biden said he had authorized federal resources to be used in the search and rescue operation.

“We’re incredibly grateful for the brave rescuers who immediately rushed to the scene. And to the people of Baltimore, we want to say, we’re with you, we’re going to stay with you for as long as it takes,” said Biden.

The president echoed local, state and federal officials who said investigators have found no evidence linking the incident to terrorism. Biden called it a “terrible incident and accident.”

Biden pledged that the federal government would pay to replace the bridge, which was built in the 1970s at the cost of $110 million, the equivalent of $500 million in 2024 accounting for inflation.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said at a news conference Tuesday morning that rescue crews are doing all they can to save lives.

“To the victims of this tragedy and their loved ones, all our hearts are broken,” Moore said. “In the face of heartbreak, we come together, we embrace each other.”