A tragic and shocking maritime incident occurred on Saturday evening in New York City, when the Mexican Navy’s training ship Cuauhtémoc, with 277 people on board, collided with the Brooklyn Bridge, resulting in at least two deaths and 19 injuries, including two critically injured, according to New York Mayor Eric Adams.
The incident unfolded at approximately 8:26 pm local time, as the Cuauhtémoc, an elaborately lit tall ship used for training naval cadets, attempted to navigate through the harbor during its departure from New York. In a video that has since gone viral, crowds can be seen gathered along the harbor to watch the majestic vessel sail. Moments later, two of the ship’s towering 147-foot masts struck the lower structure of the Brooklyn Bridge, snapping violently.
Eyewitness footage captures sailors dressed in white uniforms on the masts falling or clinging on for safety as the masts buckled upon impact. Onlookers were seen screaming and fleeing as parts of the ship crashed into the bridge, creating a scene of chaos and fear.
Emergency response teams from the New York Fire Department and other city agencies immediately launched rescue operations. Authorities confirmed that none of the crew members fell into the water, and all injuries occurred onboard the ship due to the collapsing mast and resulting chaos.
Mayor Adams posted on X (formerly Twitter):
"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."
The Cuauhtémoc is a well-known tall ship and symbol of Mexico’s naval tradition, typically used for international goodwill visits and cadet training. It was reportedly scheduled to visit 22 ports across 15 countries as part of its latest training voyage.
The cause of the accident is still under investigation, with authorities looking into possible navigational errors, height miscalculations, or miscommunication regarding bridge clearance. The Brooklyn Bridge, an iconic New York landmark, is being assessed for structural damage, though early reports suggest the damage is confined to the ship.
The incident has not only raised concerns about harbor traffic safety and maritime navigation near urban infrastructure, but also brought international attention due to the involvement of a foreign naval vessel in U.S. waters. Mexican authorities are reportedly coordinating with U.S. officials in the aftermath.
