Families of Workers Killed in Baltimore Bridge Collapse Sue Cargo Ship Owner and Operator

By Diana Novak Jones

The families of six workers who lost their lives in the March collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore have filed lawsuits against the owner and operator of the cargo ship that collided with the bridge.

In Maryland federal court, the families of Carlos Daniel Hernandez Estrella, Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, Miguel Angel Luna, Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, Maynor Yasir Suazo Sandoval, and Jose Mynor Lopez are seeking unspecified damages from Grace Ocean Pte Ltd, the ship’s registered owner, and its manager, Synergy Marine Group. The lawsuits allege that the companies were negligent in allowing the ship to depart Baltimore despite being aware of mechanical issues.

Additionally, Julio Cervantes Suarez, a survivor of the bridge collapse, has filed a separate lawsuit against the same companies, also seeking unspecified damages for his injuries. Cervantes was in his truck when it plunged into the river from the bridge.

Darrell Wilson, a spokesperson for Grace Ocean and Synergy, stated that the lawsuits were anticipated ahead of a September deadline but refrained from commenting on their specifics. He expressed optimism about presenting their case in court.

Craig Sico, an attorney representing the family of Maynor Yasir Suazo Sandoval, indicated that the lawsuits are part of a coordinated initiative involving the victims’ families. "It’s our belief that the crew of the Dali could foresee this incident taking place," Sico remarked.

On a related note, the U.S. Department of Justice initiated legal action against the companies, accusing them of willfully ignoring or mishandling the ship’s mechanical problems. The department seeks at least $100 million to cover government expenses related to the disaster response and the removal of the Dali ship and bridge debris from the Patapsco River, which was cleared to reopen in June.

The incident occurred on March 26 when the container ship lost power and crashed into a support pylon, causing the bridge to collapse and resulting in the deaths of six workers engaged in construction at the time.

Following the incident, Grace Ocean and Synergy filed a petition to limit their liability to the current value of the ship and its cargo, estimated at over $43 million. Claimants have until September 24 to come forward.

Brawner Builders, the company that employed the deceased workers, also filed a lawsuit against Grace Ocean and Synergy, seeking damages for the workers’ deaths as well as the loss of construction vehicles and equipment.

Additionally, Ace American Insurance has sued Grace Ocean and Synergy for $350 million, claiming reimbursement for payments made to the Maryland Transportation Authority under a property insurance policy following the bridge’s collapse. Representatives for Ace American, now known as Chubb, did not immediately respond to requests for comment, nor did Grace Ocean and Synergy regarding this lawsuit.