On May 17, the Cuauhtémoc, a 300-foot tall ship used by the Mexican Navy for sail training and diplomacy, crashed into the Brooklyn Bridge, resulting in the deaths of two sailors and injuries to 19 others aboard. The incident occurred around 8:20 p.m. ET when the ship reportedly lost power as it approached the iconic bridge, leading to a collision that sheared off its masts. New York Mayor Eric Adams expressed gratitude towards first responders and extended thoughts and prayers to those affected.
Among the injured, two were reported in critical condition. The Mexican Embassy and officials, including Ambassador Esteban Moctezuma Barragán, were on-site to assist the cadets involved. The U.S. Ambassador in Mexico also reached out via social media to offer support and monitor the situation closely.
Videos from the scene captured the ship sailing under the bridge, with its brightly lit masts colliding with the structure. Eyewitnesses reported chaotic moments as people in white sailor uniforms were seen dangling from the ship’s beams, while bystanders fled from the impending crash.
Emergency services responded quickly, transporting the injured to Pier 16 for assessment and treatment, ensuring that those with severe injuries were rushed to hospitals.
The Cuauhtémoc, named after the last Aztec emperor and launched in 1982, serves as an instructional vessel for fourth-year naval cadets at the Heroic Naval Military School. Prior to the incident, the Mexican Consulate had announced its arrival in New York for public visits. The Brooklyn Bridge, a notable tourist attraction completed in 1883, serves as a key connection between Manhattan and Brooklyn.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
