Tragedy on the East River: Mexican Navy Ship Collides with Brooklyn Bridge
It was a serene spring evening in New York City, the kind of night that draws people to the waterfront for sunsets and gentle breezes. But that peaceful atmosphere turned tragic in a matter of moments when a tall-masted Mexican navy training ship, the Cuauhtémoc , struck the historic Brooklyn Bridge. What was supposed to be a routine maritime departure turned into a catastrophic accident that left two crew members dead and at least 19 others injured.
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According to city officials, the accident occurred on Saturday evening as the Cuauhtémoc —a majestic, 90-meter vessel carrying 277 people—was making its way along the East River. For reasons still under investigation, the ship lost power and drifted directly toward the bridge. Its towering 48-meter masts, too tall to pass beneath the span, collided with the bridge structure. Witnesses described a deafening crunch as the masts shattered, pieces collapsing onto the bridge deck below, which was bustling with traffic at the time.
The horrifying scene was captured on numerous videos that quickly spread across social media. People on the riverbank were seen backing away in panic as the ship collided, while others screamed in disbelief. One eyewitness, Lily Katz, recalled seeing a sailor dangling midair from a harness for over 15 minutes before rescue teams could reach him. Another bystander, Nick Corso, noted the panic onboard, saying he could see a crew member frantically signaling people to evacuate the deck as the ship approached the bridge.
Despite the terrifying impact, officials confirmed that the Brooklyn Bridge—completed in 1883 and one of New York’s most iconic landmarks—did not suffer structural damage. It was, however, briefly closed to traffic. New York Mayor Eric Adams later stated that while the bridge was spared, the toll on human life was devastating. Among the 19 injured, two people were critically hurt and later succumbed to their injuries.
The Cuauhtémoc , often referred to as the “Ambassador and Knight of the Seas,” had departed from Acapulco in April on a training voyage expected to last 254 days and cover 22 ports across 15 countries. It had just completed its stop in New York, where it had been docked for public visits until May 17. Less than a day later, disaster struck.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed deep sorrow in a statement, and both Mexican and U.S. authorities are now collaborating to determine the precise cause of the incident. Initial reports suggest a loss of propulsion may have contributed to the ship's inability to maneuver away from the bridge in time.
As investigations continue, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of how quickly things can change at sea—even for seasoned sailors. A voyage meant to celebrate international friendship and naval tradition has instead become a moment of mourning and reflection for both nations.
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