The Impressive TimesWashington, Mar 27, 2024: Following a devastating bridge collapse in Baltimore, six construction workers are now presumed dead after search and rescue efforts were suspended by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Rear Admiral Shannon Gilreath, in a press conference, noted the challenging conditions including cold water temperatures and rough seas, leading to the grim conclusion regarding the fate of the missing workers.
The collapse, occurring at approximately 1:30 a.m. local time on Tuesday, involved the Francis Scott Key Bridge, a vital structure supporting Interstate 695. The incident was triggered by a collision with a Singapore-flagged large container ship experiencing power failure.
The six individuals, all road maintenance workers, were reportedly on the bridge conducting pothole repairs at the time of the collapse.
While two individuals were rescued from the Patapsco River, one remains in critical condition, according to local authorities.
In response, President Joe Biden pledged federal support for the reconstruction of the bridge, which has been operational since 1977 and serves as a major transportation route with approximately 11.5 million vehicles crossing annually.
“We’re gonna work with our partners in Congress to make sure the state gets the support it needs,” Biden assured.
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