In a series of unexpected developments, attorneys for the City of Baltimore and the Dali cargo ship's owner and manager have reached an agreement that could allow eight crew members to fly home as early as Thursday. The 21-member crew, comprised mainly of Indians and one Sri Lankan national, have been stranded on board since March 26 when the vessel lost propulsion and collided with the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, resulting in six construction worker fatalities.
The agreement comes after a week of intense legal maneuvering. Initially, Baltimore City had requested an emergency hearing to prevent the crew from leaving for their home countries due to ongoing investigations and potential lawsuits. However, the shipping company promised to produce witnesses and respond within 30 days, including providing personnel files, employment contracts, training files and records of audits.
The U.S. Department of Justice has already interviewed the crew members as part of its investigation into the bridge collapse incident.
Meanwhile, eight crew members - a cook, a fitter and an oiler - have been identified as eligible for departure under the terms of the agreement reached between attorneys on both sides. The city had initially expressed concerns that their departure could hinder ongoing investigations and potential legal action against the ship's owners.
The Dali, operated by Grace Ocean Private and managed by Synergy Marine Group, has been docked at the Seagirt Marine Terminal since its arrival in May. The main shipping channel reopened for traffic on June 10.
This latest development marks a significant turn of events in the aftermath of the bridge collapse incident, which has left many questioning the role of various parties involved and their responsibilities towards those affected.
