The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed early Tuesday morning after a container ship collided with it, sending people into the water and creating a tense scene as search-and-rescue crews attempted to locate them.
The bridge plays an important role in commercial shipping access to the Port of Baltimore, a hub for vehicles, light trucks and various bulk goods. The collapse occurred before the morning commute.
Here’s what to know about the collapse.
What happened?
Around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday, the Dali, a Singapore-flagged ship, smashed into the bridge. It’s unclear why the ship, which was carrying around 4,900 containers, collided with the bridge.
A video shared on social media appears to show the ship losing and regaining power. Smoke appears to plume out of the ship as it inches toward the 1.6-mile bridge, which vehicles were using, seemingly oblivious to what was occurring below them on the water.
The Dali crashed into the bridge, and within seconds, it collapsed with alarming speed.
“The preliminary investigation points to an accident. We haven’t seen any credible evidence of a terrorist attack,” said Maryland Gov. Wes Moore at a news conference.
Were there any deaths?
Search-and-rescue operations were underway Tuesday morning. No injuries or deaths were reported by authorities, though that could change.
Officials said construction workers were on the bridge at the time of the collapse repairing potholes. Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld said authorities are searching for six people, believed to be involved with the construction work that was taking place on the bridge.
“All of our hearts are broken. We feel your loss. We’re thinking of you,” Moore said.
Wiedefeld said authorities don’t believe anyone is trapped in vehicles in the water.
The U.S. Coast Guard said it deployed boats and a helicopter to assist in search-and-rescue efforts.
How did the collision occur?
It’s unclear what led to the collision, but the Dali was traveling at 8 knots, about 9 mph, when it struck the bridge, Moore said.
The ship’s crew notified authorities of a power issue and a mayday was issued before the collision, the governor said. The distress signal enabled authorities to halt traffic, keeping “many vehicles” off the bridge when it collapsed, the governor said.
The bridge was fully up to code, officials said. Engineers are on-site.
How does this affect commuters and cargo?
The bridge, built in 1977, crosses the Patapsco River and was part of Interstate 695, serving as the final link of the Baltimore Beltway. Some 35,000 people use the bridge daily as a major commute route, Wiedefeld said. They will have to seek alternative routes for the foreseeable future.
Shipping in and out of the Port of Baltimore is suspended until further notice, officials said. In January, more than 940,000 general cargo tons went through the port.
It’s unclear when shipping could resume because “our exclusive effort is on saving lives,” Moore said. Port of Baltimore officials said although vessel traffic is suspended, trucks are still being processed inside terminals.
Cruises also depart from the Port of Baltimore.
What are officials and authorities doing?
Federal, state and local agencies are working together to investigate and respond to the collapse.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said his agency is offering support.
The FAA announced flight restrictions for drones.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott declared a state of emergency. Moore also declared a state of emergency.
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