Larry Desantis narrowly escaped tragedy when he crossed the Francis Scott Key Bridge just moments before it collapsed due to a collision with a cargo ship. Desantis, the head baker at Herman’s Bakery in Maryland, had been commuting over the bridge for 16 years and estimated that he crossed just a minute before the accident occurred. Thankfully, Maryland Transportation Authority officers had stopped traffic onto the bridge prior to the collision, so no other vehicles were on it when it collapsed. Desantis recalled the eerie feeling of being the only one on the bridge at that time, when usually there would be several vehicles passing through.
The collapse of the Key Bridge resulted in the tragic deaths of six construction workers who were on the bridge at the time. Two workers managed to survive by running away or swimming to shore, but six others went missing. As of now, two bodies have been recovered, while four are still missing and presumed dead. Dive operations to recover the remaining victims have been put on hold due to unsafe conditions in the water. Maryland Governor Wes Moore expressed his condolences and prayers for the victims and their families during a press briefing, stating that efforts to clear the channel of bridge debris need to be completed before recovery operations can resume.
The survivors of the Key Bridge collapse, such as Larry Desantis, have been reflecting on their close calls with the tragedy. Desantis, who considers himself lucky to have crossed the bridge just before it collapsed, expressed gratitude for being alive and emphasized how quickly circumstances can change. He recalled the shock of receiving calls from concerned friends and colleagues who knew he usually took the bridge at that time. Desantis’ experience serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse has sparked investigations into the cause of the accident and discussions about infrastructure safety. Authorities are looking into the events leading up to the collision between the cargo ship and the bridge, as well as the structural integrity of the bridge itself. The tragic incident has raised concerns about the need for regular inspections and maintenance of bridges to prevent similar disasters in the future. The collapse has also highlighted the risks that construction workers face on a daily basis and the importance of ensuring their safety on job sites.
The community has been shaken by the Key Bridge collapse, with many expressing shock and sadness over the loss of life. The recovery of the victims and the rebuilding of the bridge will be a long and challenging process, requiring support from both local and state officials. Governor Moore has pledged to prioritize the recovery efforts and ensure that the victims and their families receive the support they need during this difficult time. The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of infrastructure and the need for vigilance in maintaining public safety. The aftermath of the tragedy will continue to impact the community for years to come, as efforts are made to rebuild and heal from the devastating event.
