FBI opens criminal probe into Baltimore bridge collapse that killed six – US media reports

The FBI has opened a criminal probe into the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, according to the Washington Post.

On 26 March, the Dali, a cargo ship, lost power and crashed into one of the supports of the bridge, causing it to collapse.

Video captured the moment the huge structure collapsed into the river, killing six men – all roadway workers who had been on the bridge at the time.

The criminal investigation will be at least partly focused on the Dali cargo ship and if its crew left port knowing it had serious problems with its systems, the US outlet reports, citing two officials.

Salvage crews have since been trying to clear the wreckage.

The remains of the bridge still lie across the cargo ship, blocking the shipping lane.

Following the collapse of the bridge, US President Joe Biden toured the area and saw first-hand efforts to clear away the debris.

He greeted police officers who helped block traffic onto the bridge in the moments before the ship struck, and spoke to the families of the victims.

He also promised the state of Maryland that it wouldn’t be left alone.

Mr Biden said: “I’m here to say your nation has your back and I mean it. Your nation has your back.”

The White House previously said that the current intention is to open a limited-access channel for some barge container ships by the end of April.

By the end of May they hope normal capacity will have been restored to Baltimore’s port.

The bodies of three of the six workers who died have been recovered and the other three are presumed dead.

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