Brooklyn Bridge Ship Crash: Mexican Navy Vessel Collides with Iconic Landmark, Leaving 2 Dead and 19 Injured

Tragedy Strikes as Mexican Navy Ship Hits Brooklyn Bridge

On the evening of May 17, 2025, the Mexican Navy's training vessel Cuauhtémoc collided with the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City, resulting in the deaths of two sailors and injuries to 19 others. The incident occurred around 8:20 PM local time as the ship was departing the city, en route to Iceland as part of a global goodwill tour.

Details of the Incident

The Cuauhtémoc, a 297-foot-long tall ship with three masts standing approximately 147 feet high, lost power while navigating the East River. As a result, the vessel drifted backward, causing its masts to strike the underside of the Brooklyn Bridge. All three masts snapped upon impact, leading to significant damage to the ship and chaos among the 277 crew members on board.

Dramatic footage captured sailors clinging to the rigging as the masts collapsed. Despite the severity of the collision, no one fell into the water, and all personnel were accounted for.

Emergency Response and Aftermath

Emergency services, including the NYPD, FDNY, and the U.S. Coast Guard, responded swiftly to the scene. Twenty-seven individuals were evacuated from the ship for medical assessment, with 19 confirmed injuries and two fatalities. Two of the injured remain in critical condition.

The Brooklyn Bridge was temporarily closed for inspection but was reopened after authorities confirmed no structural damage to the historic landmark.

Investigation Underway

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the cause of the collision. Preliminary reports suggest a mechanical failure led to the loss of power, causing the vessel to drift into the bridge. The Mexican Navy has pledged full cooperation with U.S. authorities and expressed deep regret over the incident.

About the Cuauhtémoc

Commissioned in 1982, the Cuauhtémoc serves as a training ship for the Mexican Navy and is renowned for its role in promoting goodwill and cultural exchange worldwide. The vessel had arrived in New York on May 13 and was open to public tours before the accident. Its journey was part of a planned 254-day instructional cruise visiting 22 ports in 15 countries.

Public Reaction and Support

New York City Mayor Eric Adams expressed condolences to the victims' families and praised the quick response of emergency services. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum also conveyed her sympathies, stating, "We are deeply saddened by the loss of two crew members."

Stay Informed

For ongoing updates on the investigation and the status of the Cuauhtémoc, follow official channels and news outlets. This incident underscores the importance of maritime safety and the challenges of navigating large vessels through urban waterways.