After the collapse of a large car bridge in the US state of Maryland, authorities believe that six people are missing. The US Coast Guard announced on Tuesday evening that it was suspending the active search for survivors. Given the water temperature, it is no longer expected that anyone will be found alive. Moreover, they do not want to endanger the health of the rescuers given the dangerous currents and debris in the water.
The more than 2.5 kilometer long bridge largely collapsed on Tuesday night after one of the pillars was rammed by a container ship. After the accident, police and rescue workers searched for hours from the air and in the water for several missing people. Two survivors were pulled from the icy water. At least seven vehicles fell into the river. Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld said the missing people were believed to be construction workers. That’s why they had repaired holes in the bridge.
Officials stopped traffic after an emergency signal
According to the crew, there was a problem with the electricity on the ship. This was confirmed by the governor of the American state of Maryland. Moore said the emergency signal allowed officials to hold traffic to prevent more cars from entering the bridge. There is no further information about the cause so far. However, Moore emphasized that the preliminary investigation points to an accident. There is no evidence of a deliberate act or even a terrorist attack.
The US Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the incident. It will likely be some time before official results are available on the cause of the accident. The emergency services initially concentrated on searching for the missing persons.
Major thoroughfare destroyed
The four-lane Francis Scott Key Bridge spanned the Patapsco River as part of Interstate 695 southwest of downtown Baltimore. The bridge destroyed a major artery on the east coast of the US. According to the U.S. government, about 30,000 vehicles crossed the bridge per day before the accident.
Supply chain problems were feared
Baltimore is the busiest U.S. port for car shipping. Nearly 850,000 cars and light trucks were handled there in 2023, according to the Maryland government. Automakers that handle imports and exports through Baltimore include Toyota, General Motors and Volkswagen. More than forty ships had to remain in port after the collapse. At least thirty ships were still en route to Baltimore. US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg expressed fears that the collapse would lead to supply chain problems affecting the entire US.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
