A tragic accident unfolded on Saturday night as the Mexican Navy’s training vessel, Cuauhtémoc, collided with the iconic Brooklyn Bridge in New York City. The incident resulted in the deaths of two people and left 17 others injured, according to statements from Mayor Eric Adams.
The Cuauhtémoc, adorned with lights and a giant Mexican flag, was sailing under the bridge when its 147-foot masts proved too tall to clear the structure. As the vessel attempted to pass beneath the bridge near the Manhattan side, the tops of its masts sheared off upon impact.
Videos circulating online captured the moment of the collision, showing naval cadets in white uniforms clinging to the ship’s crossbeams in the aftermath. Bystanders at the South Street Seaport were seen fleeing in fear as the massive ship veered toward the dock after hitting the bridge.
Mayor Adams reported that among the 277 people onboard, 19 sustained injuries, with two in critical condition and two fatalities. “At this time, of the 277 on board, 19 sustained injuries, 2 of which remain in critical condition, and 2 more have sadly passed away from their injuries,” Adams shared on social media.
The Mexican Navy confirmed that no one fell into the water during the incident and that 19 individuals were receiving medical attention at local hospitals, with three in serious condition. The cause of the crash is under investigation, although initial reports suggest mechanical issues may have played a role.
The Brooklyn Bridge, completed in 1883 and once the world’s largest suspension bridge, sustained no major damage and was reopened to traffic in both directions after a preliminary inspection.
The Cuauhtémoc, built in 1981 at the Celaya Shipyards in Bilbao, Spain, was concluding its visit to New York City, where it had been docked as part of an event co-hosted with the South Street Seaport Museum. The public had been invited to tour the ship during its stay. The vessel was set to depart for Iceland following its time in New York.
Officials from Mexico’s Foreign Ministry stated that they are assisting the affected cadets and are in contact with local authorities to provide support.
