Authorities in New York have released preliminary findings following a tragic maritime accident that occurred on Saturday, May 17, when a Mexican naval training vessel collided with the Brooklyn Bridge, resulting in two fatalities and numerous injuries.
The vessel involved, the Cuauhtémoc, a tall ship operated by the Mexican Navy, was carrying 277 individuals at the time of the incident. According to New York Police Chief Wilson Aramboles, the ship had recently departed a pier in Manhattan and was not originally scheduled to navigate toward the bridge.
The initial investigation indicates that the vessel suffered a mechanical failure, causing it to lose power and veer off its intended course. As a result, the ship drifted in reverse toward the Brooklyn Bridge. Its towering masts—too tall to clear the structure—struck the bridge, leading to their collapse.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams confirmed the incident in a public statement, noting that 19 individuals were injured in addition to the two confirmed deaths. Two of the injured remain in critical condition. The mayor expressed gratitude to first responders and confirmed that a structural inspection determined the bridge did not sustain damage and has since been reopened to the public.
Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life and extended condolences to the families of the deceased. She also confirmed that the wounded were receiving medical treatment with support from local authorities, and noted that Mexico’s diplomatic representatives in New York are providing assistance.
Eyewitness accounts further highlighted the terrifying nature of the event. One witness, Flavia Moreira, who was walking along the promenade, described the ship approaching unexpectedly before striking the bridge. She observed crew members struggling to maintain balance as the impact caused chaos on deck. Reports suggest the two individuals who died had fallen from the ship’s mast during the collision.
The National Transportation Safety Board has launched an official investigation to determine the full circumstances surrounding the accident.
Source: CNN
