The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a civil claim seeking to recover more than $103 million in damages from the owners and operators of the containership Dali, following a devastating incident that destroyed Baltimore's iconic Francis Scott Key Bridge and resulted in the deaths of six road workers.
The lawsuit targets Grace Ocean, the vessel's owner, and Synergy Marine, its operator, accusing them of negligence and knowingly allowing the Dali to remain in service despite critical safety faults.
According to the DOJ, the ship had been “jury-rigged” in a makeshift effort to keep it operational, despite long-standing structural and mechanical issues that rendered it “unseaworthy”.
This filing at the US District Court is the most comprehensive account yet of the catastrophic events that occurred earlier this year, when the Dali veered off course and collided with the bridge, causing significant damage and a tragic loss of life.
The DOJ alleges that Grace Ocean and Synergy Marine failed to heed multiple warnings and carried out inadequate repairs that ultimately led to the disaster.
The lawsuit seeks to recover the costs associated with the destruction of the bridge – which serves as a critical transportation link in the Baltimore area – as well as punitive damages aimed at holding the companies accountable for their alleged gross negligence.
According to The Maritime Executive, a DOJ statement said: “Today’s filing is about ensuring that those responsible for this tragedy face justice.
“The reckless actions of these companies not only caused immense physical and financial damage but also cost six people their lives. We will pursue every available legal avenue to seek accountability.”
Grace Ocean and Synergy Marine have not yet responded to the lawsuit.
Both companies are expected to contest the claims, though legal analysts suggest the detailed nature of the government’s allegations could make their defence challenging.
The case is likely to draw significant public attention, given the scale of the disaster and its impact on the local community.
The Francis Scott Key Bridge, a critical piece of infrastructure in Baltimore, remains closed for repairs, disrupting traffic and commerce in the region.
