Multiple outlets are reporting that an ocean-going container ship struck a pillar of a major bridge in Baltimore harbor early this morning, causing the bridge to collapse.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore collapsed early Tuesday morning after it was struck by a 984-foot cargo ship owned by Danish shipping giant Maersk and chartered by Synergy Group.
According to a report by CNN, lights were seen flickering on giant ship just before it veered off-course and crashed into the pillar.
CNN is also reporting that authorities are carrying out a search and rescue operation using sonar and infrared technologies as well as drones. He said they have identified vehicles submerged in the water. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore declared a state of emergency following the collapse of the bridge. The Baltimore branch of the FBI is also at the scene, however the Baltimore police chief said there was no indication of terrorism as a motivating factor.
According to Baltimore’s Fire Chief James Wallace, at least two people have been rescued, but they are searching for at least seven others, including contractors who were confirmed working on the bridge of the time of the collapse. Authorities indicated that the number of missing may rise.
President Biden is being kept informed of the situation, and the White House issued a statement saying “Our hearts go out to the families of those who remain missing as a result of this horrific incident,” noting that there is “no indication of any nefarious incident.”
