Shortly before a massive cargo ship struck the Francis Scott Key Bridge early Tuesday, crew members issued a mayday call that allowed officers a few precious minutes to close down the bridge to traffic, likely saving lives.
A construction crew fixing potholes was unable to escape in time.
The effort to rapidly shut down traffic likely prevented more cars from being on the bridge during the collapse, officials said.
Here is a transcript of audio from a Maryland Transportation Authority Police channel, revealing how officers responded to the mayday call and successfully halted traffic.
The audio was posted on the Broadcastify website.
Persons:
Francis Scott Key
Organizations:
Francis Scott Key Bridge, Maryland Transportation Authority Police