Federal safety investigators in the United States have recovered the data recorder, commonly known as the black box, from the cargo ship that collided with Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge. The collision resulted in the collapse of the bridge into the Patapsco River on Tuesday. A team from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) boarded the ship to gather evidence for their investigation. Jennifer Homendy, the chair of the agency, stated to CNN that the black box will help in establishing a timeline of events leading to the tragedy. The data recorder has been sent to a lab for examination, with Homendy hoping to share information with the public later in the day. Sources familiar with the probe mention that investigators will also explore whether tainted fuel played a role in the accident. Despite initial concerns, the FBI has ruled out any connection between the collision and terrorism.
US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg attributed the “almost-instant catastrophic result” to the weight of the ship and its cargo. He emphasized the necessity of preparing for a better future to mitigate such threats, describing the incident as unimaginable in scale.
In another development, the Maryland Transportation Authority released dispatch recordings capturing the moments after the pilot of the Dali Ship issued a mayday alert, warning of an imminent collision with the bridge. The audio revealed the frantic efforts of first responders to halt traffic over the Key Bridge. Eight construction workers were on the bridge at the time, with two rescued and six still missing and presumed dead. Officials on the recording can be heard coordinating efforts to ensure the safety of individuals on the bridge before ultimately confirming its collapse.
The incident has sparked widespread concern and calls for improved safety measures in maritime transportation. Investigations into the cause of the collision are ongoing, with authorities determined to uncover the factors contributing to the tragic event.
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