Mexican Navy Tall Ship Loses Mast in Collision with Brooklyn Bridge

Tragic Collision: Mexican Navy Ship Hits Brooklyn Bridge, Leaving Two Dead and Several Injured

By Daniel Katzive (gCaptain)

In a shocking incident on Saturday evening, the Mexican Navy’s tall ship Cuautemoc collided with the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, leading to important damage and multiple injuries. Reports indicate that around 200 individuals were aboard during this unfortunate event. The injured are currently being assessed at the Brooklyn Navy Yard.

Social media captured the moment of impact, showing the ship’s masts striking the bridge before collapsing. One observer noted how surreal it was to see a vessel adorned with vibrant Mexican music and a large flag meet such an unexpected fate.

The Cuautemoc,which has been part of Mexico’s naval training since its launch in 1982,had just arrived in New York Harbor earlier that week for a scheduled visit at South Street Seaport’s Pier 17. After departing with both a pilot and tugboat assistance from Charles D McAllister, it aimed to head south towards Iceland but instead reversed course into danger.

As it drifted back toward land near Brooklyn’s shoreline, disaster struck when its masts hit the bridge. The ship eventually came to rest between Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges.

According to FDNY reports received around 8:20 PM on Saturday night, there were 277 people onboard at the time of impact; emergency services treated 27 individuals for various injuries.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams shared via social media shortly after midnight that two crew members tragically lost their lives among those injured—19 in total—with two others remaining in critical condition.

An NYPD official mentioned during a press briefing that preliminary findings suggest power loss may have contributed to this mishap as they backed away from Pier 17; however, further examination by NTSB is underway for clarity on what transpired.In an official statement released by Mexico’s Navy on May 17th regarding this incident—which occurred during their “Bicentennial of Independence at Sea” cruise—they confirmed damage sustained by Cuautemoc would halt their instructional voyage. They reported an updated count of injuries: out of 22 affected crew members—11 classified as serious while nine remained stable—two sadly succumbed due to their wounds.

The Ministry expressed deep condolences while ensuring families are kept informed about their loved ones’ conditions and coordinating efforts for cadets’ safe return home so they can continue their studies post-incident. Communication lines remain open between naval officials and relatives affected by this tragedy as investigations proceed into understanding how such an accident could occur amidst routine operations—a stark reminder of maritime risks faced daily by seafarers worldwide.

Stay tuned for more updates as we follow this developing story closely!