Tragedy Strikes: Mexican Sail Training Vessel Collides with Brooklyn Bridge, Resulting in Fatalities

In a shocking incident in New York Harbor, teh Mexican sail training ship Cuauhtémoc collided with the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, leaving onlookers stunned. The Mexican Navy has confirmed that 19 cadets sustained injuries, with two tragically losing their lives.

This vessel, launched in 1982 as a tribute to classic sail training ships from the 1930s, was visiting New York City as part of a goodwill tour during its journey to Iceland. A total of 229 sailors were aboard at the time of the accident; reports indicate that while nine are stable, eleven are facing more serious health issues. Following this event, plans for the training cruise have been halted and arrangements are being made by the Mexican embassy to reunite cadets with their families.

Eyewitness accounts suggest that during a ceremonial maneuver along New York’s East River—where strong currents can be challenging—the ship lost power and veered off course towards the bridge supports. Cadets were reportedly positioned high up in the rigging when disaster struck. Images show one mast broken and leaning awkwardly.

— Enguerrand VII de Coucy (@ingelramdecoucy) May 18, 2025

The three masts collided with the bridge’s underside amid sounds of splintering wood reported by spectators gathered for this unique sight.The NYC Fire Department’s Marine Rescue team quickly responded after receiving calls about individuals potentially falling into the water.