The owners and operators of the Dali ship, Grace Ocean Private Limited and Synergy Marine PTE, are facing a new lawsuit in connection with the Key Bridge collapse in Baltimore. Karen Austin and Charles Austin Jr., who own American Publishing LLC, have filed the lawsuit claiming that their business was directly impacted by the collapse.
The lawsuit emphasizes the strategic importance of the Francis Scott Key Bridge to local businesses, which relied on the bridge for transportation of goods. The Austins claim that the collapse of the bridge has significantly affected their business, causing their income to decline by 84% in April 2024 compared to the previous year.
The Austins are seeking to have the lawsuit declared as a class action, allowing other businesses affected by the bridge collapse to join in legal action. However, Grace Ocean Private Limited and Synergy Marine PTE have denied all allegations and requested that court cap damages that can be awarded in case.
The lawsuit highlights how interconnected local commerce and infrastructure are and underscores how significant impact has been on businesses in Baltimore due to bridge collapse.
The case continues with court hearing yet to be scheduled.