Main bridge in Baltimore collapses after being struck by ship

Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge partially collapsed within the early hours of Tuesday morning following a ship collision, native authorities mentioned.

The bridge carries Route 695 throughout the Patapsco River, southeast of the Baltimore metropolitan space.

The incident passed off at 1:35 a.m. native time on Tuesday, and staff might have fallen into the water, in response to a Baltimore Metropolis police spokesperson.

A big container ship hit the bridge in a single day, and there gave the impression to be personnel on the crossing on the time of the incident, Baltimore Hearth Division Battalion Chief Glenn Kukucka instructed CNBC by telephone. He added that the vessel concerned within the collision appeared to have sustained injury.

“The Coast Guard acquired a report at 1:27a ET {that a} motor vessel made influence with the bridge,” U.S. Coast Guard Spokesperson Matthew West instructed NBC Information. “USCG confirms the ship is the 948-ft DALI vessel. USCG has deployed three response boats, and air pollution responders are en route from the Sector Maryland-Nationwide Capital Area.”

Shipping data signifies that the Singapore-flagged container vessel is below the administration of Synergy Marine Group, which didn’t instantly reply to a CNBC request for remark. Marine traffic data suggests the ship was certain for Colombo, Sri Lanka.

“I am conscious of and en path to the incident on the Key Bridge. I’ve been involved with @BaltimoreFire Chief Wallace, @GovWesMoore @JohnnyOJr, and @AACoExec. Emergency personnel are on scene, and efforts are underway,” mentioned Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott on social media.

The U.S. Coast Guard didn’t instantly reply to a CNBC request for remark.

Correction: This text has been up to date to replicate that the Francis Scott Key Bridge crosses the Patapsco River.