New York authorities have confirmed that a mechanical failure led to the tragic collision between a Mexican navy training ship and the Brooklyn Bridge over the weekend, resulting in two deaths and multiple injuries.
The tall ship Cuauhtémoc, operated by the Mexican Navy and carrying 277 people, struck the bridge on Saturday, May 17, as it attempted to pass underneath. The ship’s masts clipped the bridge, causing them to collapse. Nineteen people were injured in the incident, and two crew members tragically lost their lives.
In a briefing, NYPD Chief of Department Wilson Aramboles said the vessel had departed from a Manhattan pier but deviated from its intended course. Preliminary reports suggest the ship lost power due to a mechanical issue, which prevented it from properly steering away from the low-clearance structure.
With its masts too tall to safely clear the bridge, the vessel was reportedly attempting to reverse when the collision occurred.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams addressed the incident on social media, writing (via The Independent): “Earlier tonight, the Mexican Navy tall ship Cuauhtémoc lost power and crashed into the Brooklyn Bridge. Of the 277 on board, 19 sustained injuries, two remain in critical condition, and two others have sadly passed away.
We are praying for everyone on board and their families, and we are grateful to our first responders whose quick actions helped prevent a worse outcome. Following inspection, we can confirm the bridge sustained no damage and is open to the public.”
President of Mexico Claudia Sheinbaum also expressed her condolences, stating (per Reuters): “We are deeply saddened by the loss of two crew members of the Cuauhtémoc who lost their lives in this unfortunate accident. Our sympathy and support go out to their families.
The Navy, supported by local authorities, is caring for the injured. Our ambassador to the U.S. and staff at the Consulate General in New York are offering their full support.”
Sheinbaum also thanked Mayor Adams for his assistance and emphasized that the Mexican Navy would continue to provide updates as the situation evolves.
The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the incident to determine exactly what went wrong.
Eyewitness Flavia Moreira, who was walking nearby when the ship struck, described the moment as “surreal.”
“It just kept coming closer and closer, and at some point, I was like, I don’t think that’s right,” she told CNN.
“People started recording. Some of the staff were on the top of the boat, and when it hit the bridge, they were swinging around, holding on for dear life. We could see them really struggling not to fall.”
According to law enforcement sources, the two individuals who died had fallen from one of the ship’s masts during the impact.
The Cuauhtémoc, often used for naval training and diplomatic voyages, is a symbol of Mexican maritime tradition, making this accident all the more devastating for the nation and the international naval community.
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