NEW YORK – A tragic accident unfolded Saturday when a Mexican Navy training vessel collided with the Brooklyn Bridge, killing two people and injuring 17 others. The ship, named ARM Cuauhtémoc, was passing under the bridge when its tall masts struck the structure, causing a violent impact that sent parts of the rigging collapsing onto the deck.
According to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene and treated a total of 19 injured individuals, including four with serious injuries. Despite the intensity of the crash, Adams confirmed the Brooklyn Bridge did not suffer major structural damage, thanks in part to its robust construction and the swift response of emergency teams.
The vessel drifted toward the Manhattan shoreline after the collision and came to a stop near the Manhattan Bridge. Videos shared online captured the dramatic moment the ship’s mast snapped, with debris falling and crew members seen dangling from high above the deck. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic and terrifying, with one person hanging in a harness for several minutes before being rescued.
The Cuauhtémoc, a tall ship used by the Mexican Naval Academy for training purposes, was on an international goodwill voyage when the crash occurred. The ship was flying a large Mexican flag and carrying cadets at the time. In a statement, the Mexican Navy confirmed the damage and announced the ship would not continue its planned journey.
Mexico’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said its ambassador and consular staff in New York were coordinating with local authorities and offering support to affected crew members. However, officials have not confirmed whether any of the injured were Mexican nationals.
While the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, authorities are exploring whether mechanical failure, human error, or other factors may have contributed. The iconic Brooklyn Bridge, built in 1883, will be closely monitored by engineers in the coming days to ensure continued safety for the thousands of people who cross it daily.