Baltimore, MD – The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) unveiled their initial findings regarding the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, shedding light on the tragic incident that transpired in March.

Details of the Incident

According to the NTSB report, the calamity unfolded in the early hours of March 26, 2024, at approximately 1:29 am. The report outlines that the Singapore-flagged cargo vessel, The Dali, measuring 947 feet in length, was departing from Baltimore Harbor when it encountered a critical setback. The vessel experienced a sudden loss of electrical power and propulsion, leading to a collision with the southern pier supporting the central truss spans of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.

Consequences of the Collision

The impact resulted in a segment of the bridge collapsing into the river, while portions of the deck and truss spans collapsed onto the forward deck of The Dali. Tragically, a road maintenance crew comprised of seven individuals, employed by Brawner Builders and contracted by the Maryland Transportation Authority, was present on the bridge at the time of the collision. Additionally, an inspector from Eborn Enterprises, Inc., a subconsultant to the MDTA, was also on-site.

Human Toll and Casualties

The NTSB’s report confirms the grim outcome of the incident. While the inspector managed to escape without injury, one member of the maintenance crew sustained serious injuries. Regrettably, the bodies of six construction crew members who were on the bridge during the collision have been recovered. Moreover, one of the 23 individuals aboard The Dali suffered injuries as a result of the accident.

Official Classification and Investigation

The US Coast Guard has categorized this event as a major marine casualty, underscoring its severity and impact. The NTSB has assumed responsibility for leading the safety investigation, aiming to uncover the underlying causes and contributing factors behind the collapse.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety and Accountability

The preliminary report from the NTSB offers crucial insights into the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse, emphasizing the imperative of prioritizing safety measures within maritime and infrastructure sectors. As investigations continue, accountability and preventive measures will be paramount to mitigate the risk of similar incidents in the future.

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