Mexican Navy Ship Collides with Brooklyn Bridge

On the evening of May 17, 2025, the Mexican Navy training ship Cuauhtémoc collided with the Brooklyn Bridge in New York. Two sailors lost their lives in the accident, and 19 others were injured. Three masts of the ship struck the bridge, causing damage. Authorities stated that while the bridge did not sustain major structural damage, the ship was seriously damaged.

The Cuauhtémoc, with a crew of 277, had set sail from Acapulco on April 6 for a global training tour. New York was one of the 22 ports on the itinerary. The moment of the collision was recorded by bystanders and quickly spread on social media.

The deceased sailors, América Yamilet Sánchez, 20, and Adal Jair Maldonado Marcos, 23, were both young crew members. Sánchez was on duty in the ship’s masts at the time of the accident. Their families described them as exemplary individuals and expressed deep sorrow over their loss.

Of the 19 injured, four were in serious condition. They were transported to nearby hospitals. The New York Police Department, Fire Department, and Coast Guard promptly responded to the scene.

Officials explained that the accident occurred due to a mechanical failure causing loss of power, which led to the ship being pushed off course by wind and currents. The police noted that the ship’s pilot had only 80-90 seconds to react, making the collision unavoidable.

No major damage was reported to the Brooklyn Bridge, though pedestrian walkways were affected. The bridge was temporarily closed but reopened shortly after.

The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board has launched an investigation into the incident. The Mexican Navy is conducting an internal inquiry and has promised full transparency. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum extended condolences to the families of the deceased and pledged full support.

The incident turned a friendly visit into a tragic accident, causing widespread sorrow. Authorities continue their efforts to determine the exact causes of the crash.