The U.S. Justice Department has reached a settlement of over $100 million with the companies that owned and operated the shipping vessel that caused the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Maryland. Dali.Grace Ocean Private Ltd. and Synergy Marine Private Ltd. have agreed to pay $101,980,000 to settle the civil claim brought by the U.S. for the costs related to the bridge collapse. The settlement does not include damages to rebuild the bridge as Maryland was responsible for its maintenance. There are still multiple outstanding civil claims seeking damages from the owners of the vessel. The Dali vessel crashed into the Key Bridge in March, causing it to collapse and resulting in six deaths. The shipwreck obstructed the channel for months, halting shipping at the Port of Baltimore and impacting local commuters. The U.S. coordinated efforts to remove debris and set up temporary channels to alleviate the economic impact of the incident. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton stated that the settlement fully compensates the U.S. for the costs incurred and holds the owners and operators of the vessel accountable. The resolution of the case avoids prolonged litigation and associated expenses.
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