(AP)—A container ship lost power and rammed into a major bridge in Baltimore, causing the span to buckle into the river below. The collapse plunged a construction crew into the dangerously cold waters.
Rescuers pulled out two people, but six others were missing.
The ship’s crew issued a mayday call moments before the crash took down the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore said the mayday enabled authorities to limit vehicle traffic on the span. The ship struck one of the bridge’s supports, causing the structure to collapse like a toy. It tumbled into the water in a matter of seconds.
Click the audio to hear from Baltimore City County President Nick Mosby, City faith leader Rev. Dr. Alvin Hathaway, and Elizabeth Stoner, LCSW-C with Pro Bono Counseling.
We are Maryland tough. We are Baltimore strong.
— Governor Wes Moore (@GovWesMoore) March 26, 2024
In the face of danger, we hold out. In the face of heartbreak, we come together, and we come back stronger.
That is what we’ve always done. That’s what we will continue to do.
The State of Maryland, our federal partners, local leaders, and first responders are working together to carry out rescue efforts and respond following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
— Governor Wes Moore (@GovWesMoore) March 26, 2024
Our full press conference this morning in Baltimore:https://t.co/te9asC5VlF
Baltimore, I am officially declaring a local state of emergency in response to the collapse of our Key Bridge. Our teams are mobilizing resources and working swiftly to address this crisis and ensure the safety and well-being of our community. pic.twitter.com/x6euk2SocZ
— Brandon M. Scott (@MayorBMScott) March 26, 2024
Baltimore, I am officially declaring a local state of emergency in response to the collapse of our Key Bridge. Our teams are mobilizing resources and working swiftly to address this crisis and ensure the safety and well-being of our community. pic.twitter.com/x6euk2SocZ
— Brandon M. Scott (@MayorBMScott) March 26, 2024
We are all shocked at the horrific scenes playing out at the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
— Nick J. Mosby (@Nick_Mosby) March 26, 2024
For now, we must pray for the victims and support our heroic first responders who are working to rescue and save lives. The coming days and weeks will be difficult for us all, but we will rise. pic.twitter.com/AcbNON848Y
Today's tragedy at the Francis Scott Key Bridge is heartbreaking for all of us and could be triggering for some.
— BHS Baltimore (@BHSBaltimore) March 26, 2024
If you need to talk it through with someone, call or text 988. pic.twitter.com/0AEU1Gzp9O
