Baltimore officials blame ship owner for bridge collapse | Global News

The city of Baltimore is seeking full liability from the owner and manager of the massive container ship that caused the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge last month. The vessel, named Dali and owned by Singapore-based Grace Ocean Private Ltd., veered off course and slammed into the bridge, resulting in a tragic incident that claimed the lives of six roadwork crew members.

Court papers filed on behalf of Baltimore’s mayor and city council accuse the two Singapore-based companies, including ship manager Synergy Marine Pte Ltd., of negligence. The city’s attorneys argue that the companies should have realized the Dali was unfit for its voyage and should have ensured the ship was manned with a competent crew.

The incident, which occurred on March 26, 2024, has led to a federal court case in Maryland to determine the extent of responsibility and potential financial damages. The city’s complaint highlights the economic impacts of the disaster, as it has halted maritime traffic through the Port of Baltimore and disrupted a crucial east coast trucking route.

Salvage crews are currently working to remove the debris from the collapsed bridge in the Patapsco River, with the main shipping channel expected to remain closed for several more weeks. The FBI has launched a criminal investigation, while the National Transportation Safety Board is looking into potential power issues with the Dali’s electrical system before the voyage.

The legal battle between the city of Baltimore and the ship’s owner and manager is ongoing, with victims’ families and their lawyers vowing to hold the companies accountable for the tragic collapse. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for maritime law and liability in similar incidents in the future.