FBI Establishes “No Drone Zone” in Wake of Baltimore Bridge Collapse

Following the tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, the FBI has announced the establishment of a “no drone zone” in and around the affected area of the city’s Port. The bridge collapsed early Tuesday morning after a massive cargo ship struck one of its support pillars, sending the steel truss into the water below and leaving four construction workers missing and presumed dead.

Drone Ban to Ensure Uninterrupted Recovery Efforts

The FBI’s decision to create a “no drone zone” comes as a massive crane was reportedly put in place to begin the removal of debris and pieces of the broken bridge. The ban on drones is intended to ensure that recovery efforts can continue uninterrupted and without interference from unauthorized aerial vehicles. According to the FBI, anyone caught flying drones near the collapse site will face federal charges.

Search for Missing Workers Suspended

As the focus shifts to clearing the wreckage, the search for the four missing construction workers has been temporarily suspended. The workers are presumed dead, and the recovery of their bodies will resume once the debris has been removed from the site. The tragedy has left the city in shock and mourning, with many questioning how such an incident could have occurred.

Investigation into Cause of Collapse Underway

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an inquiry into the cause of the bridge collapse, with particular attention being paid to the circumstances surrounding the cargo ship’s collision with the support pillar. Some reports suggest that the ship lost power and was unable to steer, leading to the devastating impact. However, NTSB officials caution that the investigation could take up to two years to complete.

The establishment of a “no drone zone” in the wake of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse underscores the severity of the situation and the importance of allowing recovery efforts to proceed without disruption. As Baltimore comes to terms with this tragedy, it is crucial that the public respects the drone ban and allows the authorities to carry out their work. The city must now come together to support those affected by the incident and work towards ensuring that such a catastrophe never happens again.

Photo courtesy of NTSB / NBC News.