Cargo ship explosion reported near Baltimore bridge collapse site

An explosion occurred on a cargo ship in Baltimore on Monday evening, raising concerns in a region still reeling from last year’s Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse. The incident took place around 6:30 p.m. local time while the vessel, identified as the W-Sapphire, was preparing to depart the harbor. At the time of the blast, there were 23 crew members and two pilots on board, none of whom sustained injuries, as reported by local fire officials.

The explosion has prompted an immediate investigation to determine its cause. The W-Sapphire, a substantial merchant vessel measuring 751 feet and flying under a Liberian flag, was transporting coal and was bound for the Port of Mauritius, with an estimated arrival date set for approximately one month later. In the aftermath of the explosion, videos circulating on social media depicted flames and smoke rising from the ship, which was situated on the Patapsco River at the time.

In response to the incident, the Port of Baltimore announced the temporary closure of its primary shipping channel, a significant artery for maritime traffic in the region. The U.S. Coast Guard has assumed command of the investigation and will be leading the effort to ascertain what led to the explosion. As of now, the timeline for when the shipping channel will reopen remains uncertain.

This recent explosion has drawn attention to the safety protocols and regulations governing maritime operations, particularly given the history of major incidents in the area. The Key Bridge collapse in March 2024, which resulted from a collision involving the container ship Dali and led to the tragic deaths of six construction workers, still weighs heavily on the local community and authorities. The shipping channel was closed for an extended period following that event, further complicating the logistics for shipping companies and affecting commerce in and out of the port.

As the investigation into the W-Sapphire explosion continues, officials are urging caution and vigilance in maritime operations to prevent similar incidents in the future. The implications of this event may echo throughout the industry, emphasizing the need for continual assessment of safety measures in port environments and aboard commercial vessels.

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