The tragic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore has claimed the lives of three construction workers, with the body of the third victim, 38-year-old Maynor Yasir Suazo Sandoval, being recovered on Friday morning, officials confirmed.

The discovery was made by divers, as announced by local authorities, marking a significant development in the recovery efforts following the devastating incident. Col. Roland L. Butler Jr., superintendent of the Maryland state police, expressed the challenging nature of the tragedy in a statement, highlighting the collaborative efforts of various public safety agencies in the search and recovery mission.

The recovery of Mr. Suazo Sandoval’s body came just hours before President Biden’s visit to the site of the disaster, where he met with the families of the victims. Despite this progress, three more victims remain unaccounted for, more than a week after the bridge collapsed into the Patapsco River.

Mayor Brandon Scott expressed a mix of relief and empathy, acknowledging the closure brought by the recovery while recognizing the continued anguish of families awaiting news of their missing loved ones.

The tragic incident occurred during the early hours of March 26 when a cargo ship collided with the bridge, resulting in the disappearance of six construction workers. While two workers survived, the fate of the others was grimly presumed. Two bodies were discovered the following day, trapped inside a submerged red pickup truck, but ongoing efforts to locate the remaining victims have been hindered by the extensive underwater debris.

Divers have been diligently combing through the wreckage, facing challenging conditions with limited visibility and intricate obstacles of twisted steel and concrete. Utilizing sonar technology, they aim to map and clear the debris to facilitate the recovery operation amidst the broader restoration efforts.

Col. Estee S. Pinchasin of the Army Corps of Engineers emphasized the integrated approach of recovery within the broader plan, underscoring the importance of honoring the victims’ memory through comprehensive efforts.

The identities of the victims have been confirmed, reflecting a diverse group of individuals from various Latin American countries. Alongside Maynor Suazo Sandoval, the deceased include Jose López, Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes, Carlos Hernández, Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera, and Miguel Luna, each with their own story and contribution to the community.

These workers were dedicated to their labor, ensuring the functionality of critical infrastructure for their fellow Marylanders. Their absence has left a void in their communities, with advocacy groups and officials emphasizing the significance of their efforts and the lasting impact of their work.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, families and friends of the victims grapple with uncertainty and grief, seeking closure and answers amidst the ongoing recovery process. Donna Batkis, a clinical social worker providing support to the families, highlighted the profound challenges faced by those awaiting news of their missing loved ones.

As the community mourns the loss of these individuals, there is a collective recognition of their sacrifices and the need to remember their contributions. Governor Wes Moore reaffirmed the dignity of their work and the enduring legacy they leave behind, underscoring the importance of honoring their memory.