Ship strikes Brooklyn Bridge, snapping masts and killing 2 crew members

Published: Sunday, May 18, 2025 at 12:18 pm

Ship Collides with Brooklyn Bridge, Killing Two

A Mexican navy sailing ship, the Cuauhtemoc, on a global goodwill tour, struck the iconic Brooklyn Bridge in New York City on Saturday, resulting in tragedy and sparking an investigation. The collision, which occurred near the Brooklyn side of the East River, caused the ship's three masts to snap, leaving some crew members dangling from harnesses high above. Sadly, two crew members lost their lives, and at least 19 others aboard the ship required medical attention.

Eyewitness accounts and videos captured the dramatic scene, showing the ship moving swiftly in reverse before impacting the bridge. The 142-year-old bridge, fortunately, sustained no major structural damage. The Cuauhtemoc, carrying 277 people and flying a large Mexican flag, then drifted into a nearby pier.

Authorities are investigating the cause of the collision, with initial reports suggesting a possible mechanical issue that caused the ship to veer off course. The ship had just departed a Manhattan pier and was reportedly headed out to sea. The Cuauhtemoc, a training vessel for the Mexican navy, was on a scheduled global tour. The incident prompted expressions of sympathy from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. Traffic on the bridge was temporarily halted but later resumed after an inspection. The ship, built in 1982, is approximately 297 feet long and 40 feet wide.

Keywords: Brooklyn Bridge, ship collision, Cuauhtemoc, Mexican navy, New York City, accident, sailing ship, masts snapped, fatalities, East River, investigation, mechanical failure, global tour, crew members, injuries, traffic, eyewitness, pilot, Acapulco, Manhattan, pier, Mexican flag

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