US President Biden visits bridge that collapsed after ship collision

US President Joe Biden visited the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, which partially collapsed after being struck by a cargo ship.

Addressing the families of those who lost their lives in the accident and local officials, Biden said, "I am here to say that your nation has your back, and I mean it," adding, "I came here to mourn with you. It's not the same, but I know a little bit about what it's like to lose a piece of your soul."

Stating that they would mobilize state resources to ensure the new bridge is built as soon as possible, Biden said, "As the governor knows, I intend for the federal government to pay for the entire cost of reconstructing this bridge."

'THOSE RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS TRAGEDY...'

Emphasizing that the US Congress must approve the budget to cover the cost of the new bridge construction, Biden said, "I promise you, we will not rest until the cement on the new bridge is dry." Emphasizing that they would ensure those responsible are held accountable, Biden stated, "My administration is absolutely committed to ensuring that the parties responsible for this tragedy pay to repair the damage and are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law."

The Singapore-flagged cargo ship 'Dali', which had set sail from the Port of Baltimore bound for Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge over the Patapsco River.

The approximately 3-kilometer-long bridge partially collapsed due to the impact, and vehicles on it fell into the river.

'STATE OF EMERGENCY' HAD BEEN DECLARED

Following the accident, a 'state of emergency' was declared in the state of Maryland.

Of the 8 construction workers who were performing maintenance on the bridge during the accident and fell into the river, 2 were rescued, and the bodies of 2 others were recovered.

It was announced that the 4 missing individuals are presumed dead.