WATCH: Governor Moore, Maryland leaders honor victims, first responders year after Baltimore bridge collapse
BALTIMORE, Md. () — March 26 marks one year since Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed and six construction workers died. On Wednesday, Maryland Governor Wes Moore and leaders will deliver remarks to remember those who lost their lives during the catastrophic event.
At 9 a.m., Moore and Maryland officials will honor the victims and first responders who jumped into action a year ago.
U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) will also recognize the resilience of Baltimore and Maryland, highlighting the collective effort to secure resources to recover and rebuild after the collapse.
One year after Baltimore bridge collapse, long road to recovery ahead
In the early hours of March 26, 2024, a cargo ship lost power and collided with the bridge, causing it to split and fall into the Patapsco River. Six construction workers who were filling potholes died when the road buckled underneath them.
It took crews days to recover the victims' bodies and remove the remains from the river. The Port of Baltimore was closed for months due to debris blocking its main shipping channel.
On Tuesday, the victims' families and leaders visited the site for a wreath-laying ceremony and remembered the lives of their loved ones.
During the ceremony, Hollen said the collapse disrupted the lives and livelihoods of countless Marylanders. He noted the Key Bridge was an indelible part of Baltimore's skyline and people who call the city home.
Since the crash, lawmakers have been working to rebuild the bridge. Last month, officials stating the new bridge will be taller and better protected against ship strikes.
Last week, federal investigators criticized the Maryland Transportation Authority for not completing the recommendation to assess the bridge, which authorities said would have shown the bridge was at a significant risk for a strike.
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