Baltimore Bridge Collapse: Federal Probe Focuses on Ship's Electrical System

Following the tragic collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge, new discoveries have come to light, shedding important insights into the incident. Investigators are honing in on critical aspects and seeking assistance from various sources to piece together the series of events that led to the disaster.

Focus on the Electrical System

Chair of the National Transportation Safety Board, Jennifer Homendy, revealed that the focus of the investigation has turned towards the electrical power system of the large container ship that deviated from its intended course. The board is working closely with Hyundai, the manufacturer of equipment in the ship’s engine room, to gather essential data. In addition, there are requests for assistance to inspect the ship’s circuit breakers as part of the ongoing probe.

Homendy emphasized, “That is where our focus is right now in this investigation. Of course, that’s preliminary. It could take different roads, different paths as we continue this investigation.” The ship encountered power issues just moments before the collision, as indicated by video evidence showing fluctuations in its lighting.

Bridge Design and Safety Standards

Aside from the vessel’s systems, investigators are delving into the bridge design, particularly how it could be fortified with improved pier protection conforming to modern standards. Homendy highlighted the exploration of these critical aspects during her testimony before a U.S. Senate committee.

Recovery Efforts and Future Shipping Channel

The aftermath of the collapse has seen intensive efforts, including the recovery of three bodies from the submerged wreckage, with three others still unaccounted for. Simultaneously, operations are underway to dismantle sections of the fallen bridge and offload containers from the stationary vessel. Authorities anticipate the opening of a third temporary shipping channel by late April, a development that will significantly enhance commercial traffic flow through the port of Baltimore.

Upcoming Report and Timelines

Homendy also provided insight into the timeline for the release of the board’s preliminary report on the crash, indicating a projected timeline for early next month. In a hearing related to her nomination for a second term as board chair, she shared this information with the committee, underlining the significance of the impending report.

Furthermore, previous investigative work had outlined a preliminary timeline leading up to the crash, which officials categorized as an accidental occurrence. Moments following the departure of the vessel from Baltimore’s port in late March, alarms began to sound, signaling the onset of trouble. Subsequent steering and rudder commands were issued, eventually culminating in the distressing loss of power and the collision with the bridge structure.