Six workers perish in Baltimore's Key Bridge collapse after ship collision
- A cargo ship collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge, leading to its collapse and the tragic loss of six construction workers.
- The incident prompted extensive recovery operations and investigations regarding the cause of the ship's loss of power.
- Community memorials and support initiatives for the victims' families highlight the ongoing impact of this tragedy on the local population.
In Baltimore, Maryland, on March 26, 2024, the Francis Scott Key Bridge tragically collapsed after being struck by the cargo ship Dali. At the time of the incident, six construction workers were performing pothole repairs on the bridge. The sudden collision caused chaos and loss of life, resulting in extensive debris that blocked the Port of Baltimore's main shipping channel. This major maritime tragedy led to the recovery efforts and investigations concerning the fate of the workers and the ship's crew. Over a month later, the bodies of the six victims were eventually recovered from the Patapsco River, bringing a sense of closure for their families. In the following year, community memorials were organized to honor those who lost their lives, demonstrating a shared commitment to support the victims' families. Maryland’s leadership pledged to rebuild the bridge, estimated to cost around $2 billion, with the federal government covering the expenses. Investigations by the National Transportation Safety Board revealed vulnerabilities in the bridge itself and highlighted the need for better safety assessments to prevent future tragedies. The memories of the victims and the community’s grief continue to resonate throughout the state as they move forward in recovery and remembrance.