New York City is reeling after a devastating incident on Saturday night when a Mexican Navy training vessel, the ARM Cuauhtémoc, collided with the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. The collision resulted in the tragic deaths of two crew members and injuries to at least 19 others.
The Cuauhtémoc, a three-masted barque, was reportedly departing the South Street Seaport as part of a 15-nation goodwill tour, en route to Iceland, with 277 people on board. Eyewitness accounts and initial reports suggest the ship may have lost power and drifted backward into the bridge. Sailors were on the ship's yards, a high part of the mast used for sail handling, as part of a ceremonial departure when the incident occurred.
The impact caused all three of the ship's masts, which can reach a height of approximately 147 feet, to snap. Disturbing images and videos circulating online showed sailors dangling from the rigging after the collision. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, and the injured were transported to local hospitals.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams confirmed the fatalities and injuries, stating that the 142-year-old Brooklyn Bridge appears to have avoided major structural damage. Authorities temporarily halted traffic on the bridge immediately after the incident but have since reopened it following initial inspections.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched a "go-team" to investigate the cause of this tragic accident. Their investigation will likely examine several factors, including potential mechanical failure, tidal conditions, wind speed, and the protocols followed during the ship's departure.
This incident is a stark reminder of the potential dangers inherent in maritime operations, especially in complex urban waterways. Our thoughts are with the families of the deceased and the injured during this difficult time.
Facts at a Glance:
- The Mexican Navy training ship involved is the ARM Cuauhtémoc, a three-masted barque launched in 1982.
- The ship was on a global goodwill tour and had visited New York City, docking at the South Street Seaport before the incident.
- The collision occurred on Saturday evening, May 17, 2025, at approximately 8:20 PM EDT.
- Two crew members tragically lost their lives, and at least 19 others were injured.
- The three masts of the 297-foot long vessel snapped upon impact with the bridge.
- Initial reports suggest a possible mechanical issue leading to a loss of power and the ship drifting backward.
- The Brooklyn Bridge, according to initial inspections, sustained no major structural damage.
- The NTSB has launched a full investigation into the cause of the collision.
The Cuauhtémoc has a long history of goodwill voyages, serving as an ambassador for Mexico on the world's seas. This unfortunate event marks a somber moment in the ship's distinguished service record.
