Loss of Propulsion to Blame for Baltimore Bridge Crash
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA Singapore) reported that the incident occurred after the container ship Dali momentarily lost propulsion, which prevented it from keeping its intended course, leading to a collision with the Francis Scott Key Bridge.
In a statement they said, "Just prior to the incident, the vessel had experienced momentary loss of propulsion. As a result, it was unable to maintain the desired heading and collided with the Francis Scott Key bridge."
Synergy Marine, responsible for managing the vessel, informed the MPA that the Dali had deployed its anchor in accordance with emergency protocols before striking the bridge.
The MPA confirmed, "The vessel is currently holding onto its position at the site of the collision and is in a stable condition. All 22 crew members are safe and accounted for."
Furthermore, the MPA announced its commitment to support the US Coast Guard and the National Transportation Safety Board's Office of Marine Safety with the investigation into the crash. To this end, a delegation from the Transport Safety Investigation Bureau of Singapore’s Ministry of Transport, along with MPA representatives, is en route to Baltimore.