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Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapses After Collision with Cargo Ship

Breakdown of Events

On March 26, 2024, at 12:08 am EDT (05:28 UTC), the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, Maryland, collapsed into the Patapsco River after being struck by a massive cargo ship.

The Coast Guard immediately launched a search and rescue operation for six construction workers who were on the bridge at the time of the collision. However, the search was called off late Tuesday without success.

Cause of Collapse

The exact cause of the collapse is still under investigation. However, preliminary reports suggest that the cargo ship, which was carrying containers of soybeans, struck one of the bridge's main piers, causing the structure to buckle and collapse. The impact also caused a power outage in the area.

Response and Recovery

The collapse of the bridge has had a significant impact on the Baltimore area. The bridge is a major transportation artery, and its closure has disrupted traffic and commerce. The city has set up a detour route, but it is expected to cause significant delays.

Emergency crews are working to clear the debris from the river and repair the bridge. It is unclear how long it will take to complete repairs, but it is expected to be a lengthy and costly process.

Conclusion

The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge is a tragic event that has had a devastating impact on the Baltimore area. The cause of the collapse is still under investigation, but it is clear that the collision with the cargo ship was a major factor. The city is working to clear the debris and repair the bridge, but it is expected to be a lengthy and costly process.

Additional Resources

* Bridge Collapse: Latest Updates and Information * Coast Guard Continues Search for Missing Bridge Workers * Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapses in Baltimore After Collision with Cargo Ship