U.S. Department of Justice files $100 million claim

The U.S. Justice Department initiated legal proceedings against the owner and operator of the vessel responsible for the March collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, resulting in the fatalities of six workers and significant disruption at the Port of Baltimore.

The lawsuit, filed in federal court in Maryland, argues that the companies involved in the incident exhibited conduct that was "outrageous, grossly negligent, willful, wanton, and reckless." The government is pursuing damages exceeding $100 million to account for the extensive emergency response and federal assistance to affected port employees.

Seeking Punitive Damages

In addition to seeking monetary compensation, the government is also seeking punitive damages, although a specific amount is not specified in the filing.

The lawsuit outlines the findings of investigators regarding the ship's ill-fated journey that night, highlighting a series of failures onboard and missed opportunities to avert the catastrophe.