Another Body Found After Terrible Collapse

(LibertyInsider.org) – On March 26, 2024, the Francis Scott Key bridge collapsed after a cargo ship lost power and crashed into the structure. While officials were able to stop traffic on both sides, preventing a massive tragedy, the workers on the bridge weren’t so lucky. Eight people went into the water below. Two were pulled out alive, but six went missing and were presumed dead. Over the last month, rescue workers and salvage teams recovered four of the six bodies. Now, they’ve recovered a fifth.

In a news release dated May 2, authorities announced they had recovered the body of 49-year-old Miguel Angel Luna Gonzalez. Unified Command salvage teams were working to recover debris from the bridge and came upon one of the construction vehicles that went missing during the collapse. They promptly notified the Maryland Department of State Police who brought in multiple law enforcement agencies, including the FBI. Together, they recovered Gonzalez’s body.

Afterward, Colonel Roland L. Butler, Jr. issued a statement, saying authorities remain committed to the “recovery operations” while recognizing that “behind each person lost in this tragedy lies a loving family.” Gonzalez, who came to the US from El Salvador, was married with three children.

My statement on the recovery of the fifth victim of the Key Bridge Collapse. Our hearts and prayers continue to be with the families during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/QDmtbffncD

— Brandon M. Scott (@MayorBMScott) May 2, 2024

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott posted on X, formerly Twitter, thanking the teams for working diligently to recover the bodies of those lost in the accident. “To the family still waiting,” he said, “our entire city joins you in hope for the same closure soon.”

The bridge cleanup remains underway, and the FBI has launched a criminal investigation into the matter. As part of the probe, they hope to determine whether the ship’s crew knew about mechanical problems and will examine the events before and leading up to the vessel’s departure from the port.

The Maryland Department of Transportation is working with federal officials on a plan to rebuild the bridge, which is expected to cost approximately $1.9 billion.