Mexican Navy ship hits Brooklyn Bridge
A Mexican Navy training ship, the Cuauhtémoc, collided with the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City, resulting in the tragic deaths of two crew members and injuries to at least 19 others. The incident occurred as the ship was departing Pier 17 at the South Street Seaport, reportedly due to a mechanical failure that caused a loss of steering control. Strong currents and wind conditions may have worsened the situation, leading the vessel to drift backward into the bridge, causing all three of its masts to snap upon impact.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, with sailors clinging to rigging and debris falling onto the deck. Emergency services quickly responded, transporting the injured to Bellevue Hospital, where two individuals remain in critical condition. The deceased were identified as naval cadet América Yamileth Sánchez, 21, and sailor Adal Jair Marcos.
The Cuauhtémoc, a 90.5-meter-long tall ship with a 48.9-meter-high mast, was on an international goodwill tour, having arrived in New York on May 13 after departing from Acapulco on April 6. It was scheduled to visit 22 ports across 15 nations over 254 days. Federal investigators, including the National Transportation Safety Board and the U.S. Coast Guard, have launched an inquiry into the incident, focusing on mechanical issues and the role of an escorting tugboat that may have disengaged prematurely.
The Brooklyn Bridge, a historic landmark completed in 1883, sustained minor damage but remains structurally sound. Traffic was temporarily halted for inspection but has since resumed. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed condolences to the victims' families and pledged full cooperation with U.S. authorities in the ongoing investigation. The Cuauhtémoc remains docked in New York as assessments and repairs are underway.
