The FBI has initiated a criminal investigation into the Baltimore bridge collapse that occurred in March following a ship collision with a bridge support.
A fourth victim’s body was recovered, found within a construction vehicle. The incident, which claimed six lives, prompted scrutiny of the cargo ship Dali’s departure conditions and ongoing investigations into safety measures aboard.
Investigators are examining whether the ship’s crew was aware of any serious malfunctions prior to departure. The retrieval of the ship’s black box recorder, containing vital data, adds depth to the inquiry.
The city of Baltimore has enlisted legal assistance to explore potential litigation against the ship’s owner, operator, and charterer.
With the vessel’s ownership attributed to Grace Ocean Pte Ltd and managed by Synergy Marine Group, attention turns to past incidents involving the ship.
A 2016 collision in Antwerp, Belgium, and machinery deficiencies flagged during a 2023 inspection in Chile raise concerns about its operational history.
The National Transportation Safety Board’s involvement includes interviews with cargo ship personnel, adding layers to the ongoing probe.
As recovery efforts persist and traffic restoration remains underway, the task of replacing the bridge looms ahead, expected to span years.
Despite the challenges, temporary channels have been opened to facilitate vessel movement, with plans for additional routes underway.
As authorities grapple with the aftermath, questions persist regarding the ship’s condition, departure protocol, and the broader implications for maritime safety.
