2024-03-27 00:38:15
After a large car bridge collapsed in the US state of Maryland, authorities assume 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. In addition, they do not want to put the health of the rescue workers at risk given the dangerous current and debris in the water.
The 2.5 kilometer long bridge largely collapsed on Tuesday night following one of its pillars was rammed by a container ship. After the accident, police and rescue workers searched for several missing people from the air and in the water for many hours. 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. They had therefore repaired potholes on the bridge.
According to the crew, there was a problem with the electricity on the ship. This was confirmed by the governor of the US state of Maryland. Moore said thanks to the emergency signal, officials were able to stop traffic to prevent more cars from getting onto the bridge. There has been no further information regarding the cause so far. However, Moore emphasized that the preliminary investigation indicates an accident. There is no evidence of an intentional act or even a terrorist attack.
The US Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the incident. It will probably take some time until official results are available regarding the cause of the accident. The emergency services initially concentrated on searching for the missing people.
The 2.6 kilometer long, four-lane Francis Scott Key Bridge spanned the Patapsco River as part of Interstate 695 southwest of downtown Baltimore. The bridge destroyed an important traffic artery on the east coast of the USA. According to the US government, around 30,000 vehicles crossed the bridge per day before the accident.
Baltimore is the busiest U.S. port for automobile transportation. According to the Maryland government, almost 850,000 cars and light trucks were handled there in 2023. Automakers that handle imports and exports through Baltimore include Toyota, General Motors and Volkswagen. More than 40 ships had to stay in port following the collapse. At least 30 ships were still on their way to Baltimore. US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg expressed fears that the collapse would lead to supply chain problems with consequences for the entire US.
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