Staff Reports
In a recent announcement, Governor Wes Moore of Maryland shared an important detail regarding the MV Dali distress call and the subsequent collision with a bridge in Baltimore. There was apparently enough time between the distress call and the bridge collapse to block traffic from driving onto it, potentially saving lives. The Governor, speaking at a press conference, remained elusive on specific details such as the number of people on the bridge at the time of the collapse but did confirm efforts to prevent vehicles from accessing the bridge once it was clear that a disaster was looming.
Governor: ‘Heroes’ Managed to Stop Traffic Driving Onto Baltimore Bridge at Last Minute, Saved Lives https://t.co/uhUcvZvzIB
— SamanthaJBryant (@SamanthaJBryan1) March 26, 2024
The Governor emphasized the heroic actions of those who swiftly acted to stop cars from crossing the bridge after the distress call, praising them as lifesavers. The MV Dali had experienced a total loss of power just minutes before the collision, allowing authorities to communicate the imminent danger to individuals on the ground and halt traffic. Governor Moore expressed gratitude for the swift response and highlighted the courageous efforts that helped avert further tragedy.
While the investigation is ongoing, the Governor refrained from confirming the presence of members of the public on the bridge during the collision. However, it was revealed that an eight-man construction team was present on the bridge at the time, engaged in non-structural maintenance work. With two team members rescued from the water, efforts are ongoing to locate the remaining six individuals.
Governor Moore reaffirmed the state’s commitment to rescue operations, mentioning the deployment of divers and air resources to aid in the search and recovery efforts. Despite the distressing situation, the Governor’s acknowledgment of the preventative measures taken to protect lives reflects the swift and decisive actions of those involved. As more details emerge from the ongoing investigation, Maryland remains focused on the rescue and recovery mission in the aftermath of this tragic bridge collapse.
