CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: After the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, search and rescue efforts are ongoing in Baltimore. At least seven vehicles were feared to have fallen into the water after a large container ship struck the bridge.
According to officials, two people have been rescued, with one of them severely injured. The tide is adding a challenge for rescue efforts, they added.
Chief of Baltimore’s fire department, James Wallace, said at least seven vehicles fell into the water. Different agencies are present on the ground to bring equipment to cover a large search area, he added.
Wallace also said that the sonar has identified the presence of vehicles in the water. “It is difficult to emphasise on a number yet,” he said.
The White House issued a statement saying it is “closely monitoring” the Baltimore situation. “The US Coast Guard is conducting search and rescue for those who remain unaccounted for as a result of the bridge collapse,” read the statement.
“Our hearts go out to the families of those who remain missing as a result of this horrific incident,” it said.
“Senior White House officials are in touch with the governor and mayor to offer any federal assistance they need. There is no indication of any nefarious intent,” it added.
Reportedly, the ship, that struck the bridge, operated by Synergy Group was chartered by Maersk and was carrying Maersk customers’ cargo.
Meanwhile, the Maryland governor declared a state of emergency. “We are working with an inter-agency team to quickly deploy federal resources from the Biden Administration,” said governor Wes Moore.
“We are thankful for the brave men and women who are carrying out efforts to rescue those involved and pray for everyone’s safety. We will remain in close contact with federal, state, and local entities that are carrying out rescue efforts as we continue to assess and respond to this tragedy,” he added.
Mayor of Baltimore Brandon Scott described the incident as an “unthinkable tragedy” and that his office was working with every part of government to “get through this tragedy”.
Officials are also investigating whether there was a possible oil spill in the river. “We hope as the sun comes up, we will get a much better picture if we do have a fuel spill and what the impact has been so far,” said Scott.
