Summary
Federal authorities conducted an authorized search of the Maersk Saltoro in Baltimore on September 21, 2024. This operation involved investigators from the FBI, the Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division, and the Coast Guard, and was linked to the previous collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge caused by the Maersk Dali, a sister ship of the Saltoro.
The search comes in the wake of a lawsuit filed by the U.S. Justice Department against the owner and manager of the Maersk Dali, alleging negligence related to electrical system failures that led to the bridge collapse on March 26, which resulted in the deaths of six individuals. The lawsuit claims that the companies involved, Grace Ocean Private Ltd. and Synergy Marine Group, ignored known issues with the ship’s electrical systems and operated the vessel in a dangerously reckless manner. The authorities are seeking to recover over $100 million in costs associated with the cleanup and reopening of the Port of Baltimore, which was significantly impacted by the disaster.
Background on the Incident
- Bridge Collapse: The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed due to the Maersk Dali losing power and crashing into a support column, leading to fatalities and extensive disruption in shipping traffic.
- Legal Proceedings: The Justice Department’s lawsuit highlights the need for accountability among vessel operators, particularly in light of the Saltoro being actively operated in U.S. waters.
Details of the Search
- Law Enforcement Involvement: The boarding of the Maersk Saltoro was described as a “court authorized law enforcement activity,” indicating that the search was part of an ongoing investigation into the operational practices of the companies involved.
- Previous Searches: This search follows a similar investigation of the Maersk Dali conducted earlier in the year, underscoring the ongoing scrutiny of the management practices related to these vessels.
Implications of the Investigation
The investigation aims to ensure that vessel owners and operators adhere to safety regulations and do not engage in negligent practices that could endanger lives and infrastructure. The outcome of the lawsuit and ongoing investigations may set significant precedents for maritime safety and corporate accountability in the shipping industry.
FBI agents board vessel managed by company whose ship crashed into US bridge
Sep. 22 / Voanews / Highlights the extensive involvement of federal agencies in the search of the Maersk Saltoro, providing detailed context on the ongoing legal ramifications and the previous bridge collapse, enhancing understanding. The comprehensive nature of the report, including specific allegations against the companies involved, offers valuable insights into the negligence claims and potential consequences for maritime safety. “ Federal agents on Saturday boarded a vessel managed by the same company that managed a cargo ship that caused a deadly bridge collapse in Baltimore,...
Feds conduct ‘authorized search’ of Dali’s sister ship in Baltimore
Sep. 21 / Upi / Succinctly conveys the essential facts of the boarding of the Maersk Saltoro, effectively summarizing the event without overwhelming details, making it accessible for readers seeking a quick overview of the situation. However, it lacks the depth and context found in other reports, missing an opportunity to explore the implications of the ongoing investigations and lawsuits. “ Sept. 21 (UPI) -- Federal authorities on Saturday morning boarded a sister ship of the Maersk Dali, which caused the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse that...