Maryland Sues Ship Owners for Bridge Collapse

The state of Maryland, Baltimore County, and the Justice Department have filed lawsuits against Grace Ocean Private Limited and Synergy Marine Group, the owners and operators of the container ship Dali, for causing the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in March. The collapse, attributed to the ship's electrical failures and improper maintenance, resulted in the deaths of six construction workers and significant economic and environmental damage. Maryland Governor Wes Moore and Attorney General Anthony Brown emphasized the negligence of the Singapore-based companies in sending an unseaworthy ship into US waters. The lawsuits seek to hold these companies accountable for extensive costs, including bridge reconstruction, loss of toll revenue, and environmental cleanup. The Justice Department's suit alone is seeking $100 million in damages, and the litigation process is expected to take years. The state aims to rebuild the bridge by 2028, with cooperation from federal agencies on investigations and funding.