How many maintenance workers were killed in the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore?

The tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore resulted in the deaths of six maintenance workers. On March 26, 2024, a crew was actively engaged in filling potholes on the bridge when the container ship Dali, having experienced a catastrophic power outage, lost control and collided with a support pier of the structure. The impact caused the bridge to crumble rapidly into the Patapsco River, plunging the workers into the cold water.

Despite a swift search-and-rescue operation, two workers were rescued, but six members of the maintenance crew were reported missing and later presumed dead. Their bodies were subsequently recovered from the underwater debris over several weeks following the incident. This devastating event highlighted the inherent risks faced by infrastructure maintenance workers and underscored the sudden and far-reaching consequences of maritime accidents. The Francis Scott Key Bridge, a major artery for transportation and a critical component of the Port of Baltimore's operations, had stood for 47 years and was named after the writer of "The Star-Spangled Banner." Its collapse not only led to a profound human tragedy but also caused significant economic disruption by blocking shipping access to the bustling port for an extended period.