BREAKING: Baltimore Beltway Key Bridge Collapses After Cargo Vessel Collision

BALTIMORE, MD News (3/26/2024) – The I-695 Key Bridge has collapsed following a collision with a cargo vessel, prompting significant traffic disruptions and safety concerns in the southeast corridor of I-695. Motorists and boaters are urged to steer clear of the affected area while authorities conduct rescue operations.

Video footage capturing the incident depicts a cargo vessel losing power as it approached the bridge. Despite efforts to regain control, the vessel collided with one of the main supports of the bridge, leading to its total collapse. The footage also suggests the involvement of multiple vehicles and potentially workers on the bridge at the time of the incident.

As a result of the bridge collapse, the I-695 Outer Loop has been closed at MD 10 (exit 2), while the Inner Loop is closed at MD 157/Peninsula Expressway (exit 43). These closures have necessitated the implementation of alternate routes, particularly for Harbor Crossings, where motorists are advised to utilize the I-95 or I-895 tunnels.

However, it’s essential to note that vehicles transporting hazardous materials, which are prohibited in tunnels, should opt for the western section of I-695 around the tunnels. This includes vehicles carrying bottled propane gas exceeding 10 pounds per container (up to a maximum of 10 containers), bulk gasoline, explosives, and substantial quantities of radioactive materials.

Moreover, specific restrictions apply to vehicles using the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel and I-95 Ft. McHenry Tunnel, including height and width limitations. Vehicles exceeding 13’-6” in height or 96” (8 feet) in width are barred from the Baltimore Harbor Tunnel, while height restrictions of 14’ – 6” and width restrictions of 11’ – 0” are enforced at the I-95 Ft. McHenry Tunnel.

Construction of the Key Bridge started in 1972. Spanning 1.6 miles over the Patapsco River, the bridge serves as a crucial link in I-695, commonly known as the Baltimore Beltway. Scholars note that the Key Bridge holds historical significance, as it is believed to cross within 100 yards of the site where Francis Scott Key witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry on the evening of September 12, 1814. It was this pivotal moment that inspired Key to pen the lyrics of the national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.” After five years of construction, the Key Bridge finally opened to traffic in 1977, marking the completion of the Baltimore Beltway.

Motorists are urged to exercise caution and patience as this will result in significant disruptions of the Baltimore Beltway and I-695.

Story by multiple RFHC contributors