Federal Prosecutors Charge Operator of Containership That Struck Baltimore Bridge

Federal prosecutors have brought criminal charges against the operator of the containership that crashed into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, resulting in the death of six people. The charges were announced Tuesday. The operator faces criminal liability for the March 2024 incident that destroyed a major section of the bridge and disrupted port operations.

The collapse occurred when the vessel lost power and struck a support column. Six construction workers who were on the bridge at the time were killed. The bridge has remained closed since the crash. The operator has not yet issued a public statement on the charges.

Federal officials have not released additional details about the specific counts or potential penalties.

The vessel drifted and struck the bridge at approximately 1:30 a.m. on March 26, 2024. Search and rescue operations continued for days after the collapse. The bodies of all six workers were eventually recovered. The incident prompted a federal investigation into the vessel's maintenance records and crew actions.

Reconstruction of the bridge is underway with funding approved by Congress. The criminal case will proceed in federal court.