A Mexican navy training vessel, Cuauhtémoc, collided with New York’s historic Brooklyn Bridge on the evening of 17 May 2025, resulting in two fatalities and 17 injuries, including two in critical condition. The 297-foot tall ship, carrying 277 personnel, was navigating the East River on a goodwill voyage when it lost power around 8:20 p.m., leading to a devastating collision with the bridge’s lower span.
What Happened
The Cuauhtémoc, with its 147-foot masts, was en route to Iceland after departing from Pier 17 when it reportedly experienced mechanical failure, causing it to drift uncontrollably into the bridge. The impact snapped the masts, collapsing debris onto the deck and tragically throwing two sailors to their deaths, both of whom were working aloft during the crash.
According to a statement from New York City Mayor Eric Adams, posted on X:
“Of the 277 on board, 19 sustained injuries, 2 remain in critical condition, and 2 have sadly passed away.”
Emergency Response
- The New York Police Department (NYPD) and Fire Department (FDNY) responded within minutes.
- The U.S. Coast Guard deployed rescue boats to assist.
- Injured crew members were transported to Bellevue Hospital and others for treatment.
- Mexico’s Ambassador Esteban Moctezuma Barragán visited the scene and confirmed Mexican consular support.
Despite the scale of the incident, the Brooklyn Bridge sustained no structural damage, according to the New York City Department of Transportation (NYDOT). The bridge was reopened to traffic by 10:30 p.m., though safety inspections remain ongoing.
Cause Under Investigation
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched a full investigation. Initial reports suggest a mechanical failure, likely linked to engine or electrical system faults.
Maritime analysts also cite strong East River currents, which may have made recovery attempts more difficult. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) notes that tall ships like Cuauhtémoc are especially vulnerable to system-wide power outages in narrow waterways.
Reactions and Public Sentiment
News of the crash spread rapidly across social media, with graphic video clips circulating widely.
“Mexican navy tall ship smashes into Brooklyn Bridge, 2 dead, 19 hurt,” wrote user @GaroweOnline.
“Total chaos. You can hear screams. Horrific,” another user, @Corso52, tweeted with a clip showing bystanders fleeing.
The incident also cast a shadow over Fleet Week 2025, scheduled to begin 21 May, during which naval ships from across the world dock in New York for public tours and demonstrations.
About Cuauhtémoc
Built in 1982, the Cuauhtémoc is one of the Mexican Navy’s most recognizable diplomatic training vessels. Its 2025 tour included stops in Cuba, Jamaica, and was set to continue to Iceland and Europe. The ship has long symbolized Mexico’s naval diplomacy, serving both ceremonial and educational functions.
What Happens Next
- The NTSB’s preliminary report is expected within seven days.
- The Mexican Navy will assess whether the Cuauhtémoc can continue its tour.
- Questions are being raised about the safety protocols for ageing naval vessels in densely trafficked international waterways.
As investigations continue, both U.S. and Mexican authorities have pledged transparency and cooperation in understanding what led to this deadly maritime failure.
Witness Appeal
Officials urge any eyewitnesses or those with video of the incident to contact the NTSB or NYPD Harbor Unit directly.
