Mexican Navy Training Ship Crashes into Brooklyn Bridge: 2 Dead, 19 Injured
A tragic accident unfolded on Saturday when the Mexican Navy’s tall training sailing ship, Cuauhtémoc, collided with New York City’s famous Brooklyn Bridge. The crash resulted in the deaths of two crew members and injuries to 19 others.
What Happened?
The Cuauhtémoc, carrying 277 people on board, lost power while maneuvering near the Brooklyn side of the bridge. The captain had to steer the ship toward the bridge’s abutment, leading to the collision. Video footage shows the ship’s towering masts clipping the bridge as it passed under.
The impact caused the ship’s three masts to snap and fall onto the deck, where some crew members were standing. Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes, with sailors hanging from the masts as they broke.
Brooklyn resident Nick Corso witnessed the accident and recalled the panic and screams at the scene. New York City Mayor Eric Adams confirmed on social media platform X that two people died and two of the injured are in critical condition.
Damage and Rescue Efforts
Despite the severity of the collision, the Brooklyn Bridge sustained no major damage and was reopened after a preliminary inspection. Authorities believe mechanical failure and a power outage aboard the Cuauhtémoc caused the accident.
The New York Coast Guard confirmed that all crew members were accounted for, and thankfully, no one fell into the water. The ship was later towed from the scene.
About the Cuauhtémoc
The Cuauhtémoc is a 297-foot-long naval training ship that has been in service since 1982. Each year, it embarks on voyages to complete training for cadets at the naval military school.
This year, the ship set sail from the Mexican port of Acapulco on April 6, with its final destination planned as Iceland.
With masts towering 48.2 meters (158 feet) high, the ship’s height posed a challenge under the Brooklyn Bridge, which has a clearance of 135 feet at its center.
Reaction and Aftermath
Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed deep sadness over the loss of life. Emergency responders rushed to the scene to assist the injured amid chaotic traffic and panicked crowds.
The incident highlights the risks involved in navigating large vessels in tight urban waterways.
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