Courtesy of Coppin State University
The city of Baltimore has gained national attention after the tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge this Tuesday. According to The Baltimore Sun, a massive container ship adrift at 9 mph issued a “mayday” early Tuesday as it headed toward the iconic Francis Scott Key Bridge, losing power before colliding with one of the vital support columns.
The effects were immediate and catastrophic: Authorities began searching for six construction workers who had been repairing potholes on the Interstate 695 bridge at the time of the collapse. By Tuesday evening, their employer said they were presumed dead, and the Coast Guard said it was ending rescue efforts.
Baltimore is home to two Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), — Coppin State University (West) and Morgan State University (East).
Coppin State released a statement via X (formerly Twitter) in the wake of the tragic news.
“On behalf of the students, faculty, and staff, we are deeply concerned regarding the tragic incident of the Key Bridge collapse that occurred today,” the statement begins.
“This devastating event has deeply impacted our city and state, and our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this catastrophe.”
Morgan State University President Dr. David K. Wilson released a statement/open letter to his school’s community regarding the event.
Dear Morgan Community,
I write to you today, disturbed by the tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. This devastating event has undoubtedly shaken our city, and our thoughts are with all those affected by this catastrophe.
At the time of this communication, we do not believe this calamitous event directly impacted anyone from our Morgan community. Still, as members of the larger community of Baltimore and the State of Maryland, we extend our support, compassion, and assistance to those in need during this difficult time.
We understand that many of you may feel anxious, saddened, or distressed by this news and have seen the widely circulated video of the bridge’s collapse. Tragedies of this nature can be unsettling, and I want to reassure you that we are here to provide support and resources for anyone who may need it.
In times of crisis, it is essential that we lean on one another for support and strength. Please remember to take care of yourselves and each other during this challenging time. If you need help or support, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the University Counseling Center or other available resources.
Together, we encourage everyone to persevere through this challenging moment as we look to emerge stronger as a city.
Sincerely,
David Kwabena Wilson,
President