According to the reports, the search operation for six individuals who went missing after the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore has been halted, with authorities presuming them dead after an exhaustive 18-hour search.
Rear Adm. Shannon Gilreath conveyed to reporters in a Tuesday evening press briefing that based on the duration of the search, extensive efforts, and the cold water conditions of the Patapsco River, the likelihood of finding survivors was slim.
The bridge collapse occurred early Tuesday when a large container ship lost power and collided with it, resulting in people and vehicles plunging into the frigid river. Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld revealed in an earlier news conference that the missing individuals were believed to be members of a construction crew assigned to repair potholes on the bridge.
The US Coast Guard, after an extensive search effort, deemed it improbable to locate survivors due to the duration of the operation and harsh environmental conditions. Rear Adm. Gilreath announced the transition from active search and rescue to a different phase, though emphasizing continued collaborative efforts with partner agencies.
Earlier in the day, two individuals were rescued from the river, with one sustaining serious injuries and being hospitalized. Eight dive teams comprising approximately 50 divers were engaged in the rescue operation, as reported by Baltimore City Fire Department Chief James Wallace.
Firefighters utilized advanced equipment in underwater searches, while the ship involved in the collision had reportedly signaled distress before the incident, potentially mitigating further casualties, according to Maryland Governor Wes Moore. Despite ongoing efforts, six individuals remain unaccounted for.
Governor Moore expressed gratitude for traffic control measures that prevented additional vehicles from being on the bridge during the collapse. Rescuers continue to employ specialized technology and diver teams to locate submerged vehicles, with no further occupants found within them thus far.
