Baltimore, Maryland – Emergency services are actively searching for at least seven individuals following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge after being struck by a container ship. The incident has been labeled as a “developing mass casualty event” by authorities.
The catastrophic event took place at around 1:30 a.m. when a large vessel collided with the bridge, resulting in a fire and causing vehicles to plunge into the Patapsco River. The situation has been described by officials as a “dire emergency,” prompting swift rescue efforts.
As rescue operations continue, a video surfaced on social media purporting to show an “alternate angle” of the crash, capturing a massive explosion. This footage has garnered significant attention online, adding to the urgency of the situation.
According to Kevin Cartwright, director of communications for the Baltimore City Fire Department, it remains unclear how many individuals have been impacted by the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The Maryland Transportation Authority has advised motorists to steer clear of the bridge, a critical part of Interstate 695.
Furthermore, footage circulating on social media appears to depict the ship striking one of the bridge’s supports, leading to its complete collapse. However, it has been clarified that the “alternate angle” video actually shows the October 2022 attack on the Kerch Strait Bridge in Crimea, not the Francis Scott Key Bridge incident.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge, opened in 1977 and named after the author of the U.S. national anthem, has been marred by tragedy. With multiple vehicles, including one the size of a tractor-trailer, on the bridge upon impact, the situation is precarious. Cargo and retainers hanging from the bridge have added to the instability, posing additional risks to emergency responders.
In the wake of this devastating event, shared footage and misinformation have clouded the facts surrounding the collapse. The ordeal serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accurate reporting and verification in times of crisis. As the search for missing individuals continues, the community remains on high alert for updates and developments in this evolving situation.