Criminal charges have been filed in the deadly collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge. A federal court unsealed an indictment today, accusing three defendants of conspiracy to defraud the United States and causing the deaths of six construction workers. The charges stem from the March 2024 incident when the MV Dali container ship crashed into the bridge, leading to its collapse and the closure of one of the nation’s busiest ports for nearly three months.
The defendants include the operator of the MV Dali and its technical superintendent. The indictment follows a lengthy investigation by federal authorities, who had opened a probe shortly after the disaster and conducted an FBI raid on the ship. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) found that a loose wire, improperly labeled, caused the ship to lose power, leading to the crash.
The companies involved, Grace Ocean Private Ltd. and Synergy Marine Group, have faced numerous lawsuits, including a recent settlement with the state of Maryland. The settlement, announced by Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown, resolved part of the state’s claims against the companies. However, more than 50 entities, including the city of Baltimore, continue to pursue legal action.
A civil trial related to the collapse is set to begin on June 1. The trial will address claims of property damage, personal injury, and wrongful death. The companies are attempting to limit their liability to $44 million, a fraction of the estimated $5 billion cost to rebuild the bridge, which is expected to be completed by 2030.
The criminal charges add another layer to the complex legal proceedings surrounding the disaster. As the civil trial approaches, the potential for further indictments remains, with the U.S. Attorney’s Office keeping details of the case under wraps.
Recent Comments