In the early morning hours of March 26, the Francis Scott Key Bridge, a vital economic channel used by 30,000 Marylanders daily, collapsed after being struck by a massive cargo ship that had lost power and veered off course. The ship, named the Dali and owned by Grace Ocean Private Limited and managed by Synergy Marine PTE LTD, slammed into the bridge, causing its immediate collapse and killing at least six individuals. The city of Baltimore has filed a legal claim against both companies, accusing them of providing the vessel with an “incompetent crew” that lacked proper skill and training. The city is seeking unspecified damages from both companies.
The claim alleges that the Dali left port despite indications that it had an inconsistent power supply. Baltimore alleges that the companies’ negligence is “readily apparent” and that “no blame could conceivably be lain at the City’s feet.”
Earlier this month, Grace Ocean and Synergy Marine filed a petition in federal court asking for a $43.6 million limit on potential liability payouts. In its Monday court filings, Baltimore asked the court to deny the companies’ petition to limit liability.
Darrell Wilson, a representative for Grace Ocean and Synergy Marine, declined to comment on the lawsuit, citing ongoing investigations and potential legal proceedings.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the US Coast Guard are leading a criminal investigation into the ship crash. Federal investigators will also look into whether the crew failed to report an earlier issue with the ship that delayed its departure.
