UPDATE - Francis Scott Key Bridge in US collapses after cargo ship collision

UPDATES WITH REMARKS BY US OFFICIALS

By Beyza Binnur Donmez and Seda Sevencan

GENEVA (AA) - Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge in the Maryland state of the US collapsed early Tuesday after it was hit by a cargo ship.

According to the Maryland Transportation Authority (MTA), all lanes are closed in both directions, and traffic is being diverted.

Emergency response teams are in action following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which has resulted in what officials are calling a "mass casualty multi-agency incident."

"We are in the midst of managing a mass casualty multi-agency incident here," Kevin Cartwright, the director of communications for the Baltimore City Fire Department, told CNN.

According to Cartwright, the incident may have resulted in around 20 people falling into the Patapsco River, along with multiple vehicles.

“Unfortunately, we understand that there are up to 20 individuals who may be in the Patapsco River, as well as multiple vehicles.”

Cartwright further said search and rescue operations, involving a team of divers, are underway with assistance from the US Coast Guard.

US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said on X that he spoke with Maryland Governor Wes Moore and Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott after the bridge collapse.

"Rescue efforts remain underway and drivers in the Baltimore area should follow local responder guidance on detours and response," he added.