Baltimore bridge collapses after 1.6-mile structure hit by cargo ship
A “developing mass casualty event” has occurred after a cargo ship crashed into a major US bridge causing its collapse with at least seven people expected to be in Patapsco River.
Chief Kevin Cartwright, director of communications for the Baltimore City Fire Department said his focus is “trying to rescue and recover these people” calling the collapse a “developing mass casualty event”.
A large area of the 1.6-mile-long Francis Scott Key Bridge crumbled at around 1.30 am local time after the ship struck its foundations.
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott said he is “aware” of the incident adding “Emergency personnel are on scene, and efforts are underway.”
Local Baltimore media reports suggest seven construction workers were on the bridge at the time and a search and rescue operation is now underway after cars were seen flying into the Baltimore river.
Mr Cartwright said he had seen “as many as seven individuals and several vehicles” fallen into the river.
The Maryland Transport Authority said the “incident” on the Baltimore Bridge means traffic is being diverted along the I-95 interstate through the city, or harbour tunnel.
Initially, police said that people were “possibly” in the water following the collapse.
This is a breaking story, check back for updates.
