Search and rescue efforts underway after bridge collapses in Baltimore

Search and rescue efforts are underway after Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed during the early hours of Wednesday morning. At approximately 1:30 a.m. a cargo ship collided with a column of the bridge causing the structure to collapse into the Patapsco River.

According to CNN, multiple cars and pedestrians were impacted by the collapse, with 6 people currently unaccounted for. Rescue crews have identified five submerged vehicles including three passenger vehicles and a cement truck. 

The cargo ship involved in the collision reportedly issued an alert moments before the crash, which allowed authorities to stop additional traffic from crossing the bridge. It is unclear at this time if the collapse has resulted in any fatalities, as rescue efforts continue.

Officials are calling the collapse a “mass casualty event”. Maryland Governor Wes Moore has declared a state of emergency.