Two Mexican Navy soldiers who were part of 277 passengers have died after the mast they were standing on aboard the ARM Cuauhtémoc (BE01) collided with the Brooklyn Bridge in New York.
The Cuauhtémoc is 297 feet tall and has 3 masts. It was built over 40 years ago in Spain and is used by the Mexican Navy for sail training and as a diplomatic symbol abroad.
The ship was in U.S. waters, specifically New York City, as part of a promotional tour and as participation in America’s 250th birthday.
On May 17, 2025, just before 8;30 p.m., the Cuauhtémoc was sailing North along the East River. It was carrying 277 people.
Upon reaching the Brooklyn Bridge, which connects Manhattan and Brooklyn, the ship experienced mechanical failure, causing the captain to lose control, according to ABC News.
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How Cuauhtémoc crashed
The ship veered into the bridge, striking one of its pillars. All three masts of the ship snapped, and some parts fell onto the deck, injuring crew members.
Two sailors died in the collision. At least 23 people were injured, with four in critical condition. Some crew members were left dangling from the masts rigging, some stranded for a scary 15 mins.
The FDNY marine unit, NYPD, and other first responders arrived promptly. Victims were taken to the Brooklyn Navy Ward with those requiring medical care being transported to local hospitals.
The Brooklyn Bridge was closed for damage inspection by the New York City Department of Transportation (NYDOT). After confirming that the bridge had no major structural damage, they reopened it after 40 minutes.
There was heavy traffic during the bridge’s temporary closure on both directions as the bridge is a major tourist attraction and transportation link.
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The NYPD and NTSB are conducting ongoing investigations. The NYPD requested the public avoid the area to facilitate the process.
In a statement on X, the Mexican Navy acknowledged the “mishap,” noting damage to the Cuauhtémoc that prevented it from continuing its voyage. They confirmed no personnel fell into the water, negating the need for a water-based rescue operation.
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