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Tragedy struck Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge early Tuesday morning when a cargo ship collision led to a catastrophic collapse, leaving six workers from Brawner Builders missing and presumed dead. After a day of intense search and rescue operations, the U.S. Coast Guard transitioned to a recovery effort. Sadly, the bodies of two workers were recovered from a submerged red pickup truck on Wednesday morning.
State Police revealed that the search had evolved into a salvage operation, as they believe the remaining four missing workers are trapped in vehicles entangled within the debris of the collapsed bridge. Divers are unable to continue their operations due to the hazardous conditions surrounding the wreckage.
The victims hailed from El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico, and their identities have begun to emerge. Miguel Luna, a long-term resident of Maryland and a beloved member of the CASA community, was one of the missing workers from El Salvador. Fondly remembered as a compassionate individual who always extended kindness to others, Luna’s absence has deeply impacted those who knew him.
The devastating toll also included Dorlian Cabrera, 26, from Guatemala, and Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, 35, from Mexico, who were tragically found in the submerged pickup truck. Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, 34, from Honduras, was confirmed among the missing, leaving behind a loving family. Jose Mynor Lopez, 35, originally from Guatemala, was remembered by his wife Isabel Franco as a devoted father and hardworking provider.
As the recovery mission pauses to shift focus towards clearing the debris and reopening the Port of Baltimore, the magnitude of the disaster continues to reverberate. The U.S. Navy has mobilized barges equipped with heavy lift cranes to aid in the clearance of the Patapsco River. The operation aims to remove submerged portions of the bridge, facilitating the recovery efforts.
Jeffrey Pritzker, executive vice president of Brawner Builders, expressed profound shock at the unforeseen tragedy, emphasizing the company’s unwavering commitment to safety. Despite rigorous safety protocols, the collapse underscores the unpredictable nature of such incidents, leaving the community grappling with profound grief and disbelief.