Authorities in Baltimore are still actively searching for six individuals who remain missing following the tragic crash of the Dali cargo ship into the Francis Scott Key Bridge. The incident, which occurred more than a day ago, has left divers facing challenges due to cold water temperatures and choppy waters as they work to locate the bodies of those presumed dead.
Latest Developments
The National Transportation Safety Board has launched an investigation into the crash, with a team boarding the ship to retrieve crucial evidence, including the ship's data recorder. However, there is currently no specific timeline for reopening the channel into the Port of Baltimore, as efforts to clear the area continue.
US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg has warned of a lengthy recovery process for the city and port, emphasizing potential supply chain disruptions in the region. The US Coast Guard is also assessing the hazmat threat posed by damaged shipping containers from the vessel.
Challenges Faced
Search and recovery operations were temporarily halted overnight due to unsafe conditions, including unstable sections of the bridge and hanging shipping containers. The blackout of engine and electrical power on the ship just moments before the crash has raised further questions about the incident.
City Response
Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott has declared a state of emergency for the city, a status that is expected to remain in place for the foreseeable future as search operations continue. While the identities of the missing individuals have not been officially confirmed, reports suggest they include construction workers who were on the bridge at the time of the collapse.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event, efforts are ongoing to provide support to the families of those affected and to ensure the safety and security of the city and its residents.
