FBI launches criminal investigation into Baltimore bridge collapse

(Patria) - The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has launched a criminal investigation into the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, focusing on the circumstances that led to the incident and whether federal laws were violated, agencies Associated Press and Reuters report.

FBI agents are aboard the cargo ship "Dali" and are conducting a court-approved activity related to the bridge collapse, the agency announced yesterday, as reported by RFE/RL.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott yesterday announced a partnership with two law firms to "pursue legal action to hold those responsible accountable" and to mitigate damage to the city's residents.

The cargo ship "Dali," carrying containers, departed from the Port of Baltimore in the early morning hours of March 26 en route to Sri Lanka when it struck one of the bridge's support pillars, causing it to collapse into the Patapsco River.

Six construction workers who were on the bridge at the time of the collapse lost their lives. Divers have so far recovered the remains of three of the victims.

National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy said last week that investigators are focusing on the electrical system of the massive cargo ship that veered off course and struck the bridge.

The ship experienced power supply issues before the accident, as indicated by video footage showing lights flickering on and off.

In yesterday's statement from city authorities, it was emphasized that "the city will take decisive action to hold accountable all entities responsible for the tragedy, including the ship's owner, charterer, manager/operator, and manufacturer, as well as other potentially liable third parties."

"We continue to do everything in our power to support all those affected and will continue to recognize the human consequences of this event. Part of that work should be seeking compensation from those who could potentially be held responsible.

Given that the ship's owner filed a petition to limit its financial liability just days after the incident, we must equally quickly protect the city's interests," the statement said.

The investigation is being conducted amid concerns over the safety of thousands of bridges across the United States.