BALTIMORE, Md. — Federal prosecutors have announced criminal charges connected to the 2024 collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, a disaster that killed six construction workers and temporarily shut down one of the nation’s busiest shipping channels.
According to newly unsealed court documents, charges were filed against the operator of the cargo ship Dali, affiliated companies, and a ship employee in connection to the collapse.
Investigators allege the vessel was operating with known electrical and mechanical problems before the crash. Officials say the ship suffered multiple power failures after leaving the Port of Baltimore before eventually striking a support pier of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in the early morning hours of March 26, 2024.
The impact caused a catastrophic collapse, sending large sections of the bridge into the Patapsco River below.
Federal authorities claim the companies involved failed to properly address safety concerns aboard the vessel and later attempted to mislead investigators during the investigation into the disaster.
The charges reportedly include conspiracy, obstruction, and making false statements tied to the deadly incident.
Six construction workers who were performing overnight roadway work on the bridge were killed in the collapse. Officials say several of the victims were trapped in vehicles and debris after the bridge fell into the river.
The collapse also caused major disruptions to operations at the Port of Baltimore, impacting shipping traffic and commerce for months while crews worked to clear debris and reopen the channel.
Investigations into the collapse remain ongoing, while civil litigation connected to the disaster continues moving through the court system.
More updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.
