Two dead as Mexican ship hits Brooklyn Bridge

Two crew members died after a Mexican navy tall ship struck the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City on Saturday night, snapping all three of its masts and injuring at least 22 people. The dramatic incident, caught on camera by multiple witnesses, occurred at around 8:20 p.m. as the ship Cuauhtemoc was navigating the East River.

Videos showed the ship approaching swiftly before its towering masts collided with the bridge’s main span, breaking apart and collapsing. Some crew members were left dangling from harnesses high above the deck, awaiting rescue. According to Mayor Eric Adams, the historic 142-year-old bridge sustained no major damage. However, 19 people aboard required medical treatment.

The Cuauhtemoc, a 297-foot Mexican naval training vessel, was carrying 277 passengers as part of a global goodwill and cadet-training voyage. The ship, flying Mexico’s national colors, had just departed a Manhattan pier when it veered off course and collided with the bridge. Authorities suspect a mechanical failure caused the loss of power, though investigations are ongoing. A tugboat was reportedly nearby at the time.

Eyewitnesses described panic onboard and ashore. One onlooker, Lily Katz, said she saw a sailor hanging in midair for over 15 minutes before rescue. Another, Nick Corso, initially filming the scenic view, captured the moment of impact, comparing the sound of the snapping masts to “a big twig breaking.”

The Brooklyn Bridge, a key city artery and tourist attraction since 1883, was briefly shut for inspection but later reopened. The Cuauhtemoc was eventually towed upriver and docked near the Manhattan Bridge.

Originally launched in 1982, the vessel was on a 254-day tour of 22 ports across 15 countries. It arrived in New York on May 13, where it had been open to the public.

The Mexican Navy confirmed that the Cuauhtemoc is used for cadet training and expressed condolences for the loss of life.

– AP