Two bodies are recovered in Baltimore’s bridge collapse as crews continue a difficult search for four remaining victims. And, drivers are about to pay 15 bucks one-way every day just to enter this U.S. city. These stories and more highlight The Morning Rundown for Thursday, March 28, 2024.
Two victims recovered after bridge collapse in Baltimore
After the deadly bridge collapse in Baltimore, caused by a cargo ship collision, details are emerging about the victims, all of whom were construction workers. Additionally, concerns persist about the hazardous materials that were onboard the ship.
Rescue teams have retrieved two victims from a red pickup truck submerged in the river. Miguel Luna, a 40-year-old father of three from El Salvador, and Maynor Yassir Suazo Sandoval, 34, who had two children and hailed from Honduras, were identified.
The search for four other victims proceeds cautiously, as divers navigate the risks of debris and limited visibility.
The cargo ship carried over 1.5 million gallons of fuel and 56 containers of hazardous materials. While the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) notes some containers have been compromised, the Coast Guard assesses no immediate risk.
The ship’s impact on the bridge exerted over 30 million pounds of force, according to officials. Investigators have retrieved the cargo ship’s black box, which may provide crucial data. The NTSB anticipates the investigation could last up to two years.
Before the Port of Baltimore can reopen, all debris must be removed. The Navy is dispatching barges with cranes to hasten clearance, as shipping is redirected to other East Coast ports.
Border conflict: Israel and Hezbollah exchange strikes
Tensions along the Israel-Lebanon border escalated Wednesday, March 27, resulting in casualties on both sides. Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon killed at least 16 people, while rocket fire from Hezbollah militants in northern Israel claimed one life.
Lebanese officials have stated that the airstrikes targeted an emergency aid center, whereas the Israel Defense Forces have described the site as a “military compound.”
The United Nations reports that the violence has primarily been confined to the border area. In Israel, the conflict has resulted in the deaths of nine civilians and 11 soldiers. Lebanon has seen nearly 260 Hezbollah fighters and about 50 civilians killed.
The conflict intensified on October 8, when Hezbollah launched rockets into Israel, following a surprise attack by Hamas-led militants into southern Israel, igniting the ongoing war in Gaza.
Former Senator and vice presidential nominee, Joe Lieberman, dead at 82
Former Senator and vice presidential nominee Joe Lieberman has died at the age of 82 after suffering from a fall, according to a statement from his family.
“His beloved wife, Hadassah, and members of his family were with him as he passed,” the statement said. “Senator Lieberman’s love of God, his family, and America endured throughout his life of service in the public interest.”
Lieberman, who represented Connecticut in the Senate for 24 years, made history as the first Jewish Vice Presidential nominee when he ran alongside Al Gore in the 2000 presidential race.
The ticket was defeated in one of the closest and most contentious races in U.S. history.
Former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried to be sentenced
Former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried is scheduled for sentencing today, following his November conviction by a federal jury on wire fraud and conspiracy charges. The jury found Bankman-Fried guilty of misappropriating FTX depositors’ funds for lavish expenditures, including Caribbean properties and private jets.
Earlier this month, prosecutors recommended a sentence of up to 50 years in prison for his crimes, which sent shockwaves through the cryptocurrency world in 2022.
$15 traffic toll in Manhattan is approved, a first in the U.S.
Drivers in New York City will soon face a $15 toll to enter the heart of Manhattan, marking the first such congestion pricing toll in the United States aimed at reducing traffic and pollution.
New York City transit officials have approved a “congestion pricing” plan, designed to encourage commuters to opt for public transportation, thereby alleviating the city’s notorious bumper-to-bumper traffic. The revenue generated from the toll is intended to fund improvements to the subway system.
However, opponents argue that the toll represents a financial burden on workers and could lead to higher overall prices in the city. The plan is expected to be implemented in June but is currently facing multiple lawsuits attempting to block the unprecedented toll.
MLB Opening day 2024
Grab your peanuts and Cracker Jacks because Major League Baseball’s Opening Day has arrived.
The 2024 MLB season kicks off with twenty-six teams ready to take the field. The day’s highlights include the 2023 World Series champions, the Texas Rangers, hosting the Cubs.
Despite plans for all 30 teams to play, unexpected rain in New York and Philadelphia has postponed the season opener for the Mets, Brewers, Phillies, and Braves to tomorrow.
Adding to the day’s excitement, Shohei Ohtani makes his debut on the Dodgers’ home turf amidst recent gambling revelations and under the largest contract ever in baseball.
