A naval ship from the Mexican Navy collided with the Brooklyn Bridge on Saturday, resulting in two deaths and nearly 20 injuries, officials confirmed. The incident occurred during the ship’s promotional tour stop in New York along the East River.
Mayor Eric Adams reported that the ship, Cuauhtémoc, lost power as it approached the iconic bridge, causing its tall masts to strike the structure. The vessel was carrying 277 people at the time. Emergency responders treated 19 people for injuries, with two in critical condition.
Footage captured by witnesses showed the ship’s masts breaking apart on impact. As parts of the ship collapsed, traffic on the bridge came to a standstill. Spectators along the riverbank could be seen rushing away as the ship drifted toward the edge of the waterway. The Mexican flag, draped across the vessel, remained visible as the situation unfolded.
Ship Severely Damaged, Investigation Underway
According to a statement from the Mexican Navy, the Cuauhtémoc suffered significant damage that has forced the cancellation of the remainder of its scheduled voyage. Authorities in both Mexico and New York are currently reviewing the condition of the crew and the vessel, while providing support to those affected.
The Mexican Navy said it remains committed to the safety of its personnel and to the proper training of its cadets, adding that transparency will guide the investigation.
BREAKING Massive pirate ship with a Mexican flag just hit the Brooklyn Bridge pic.twitter.com/GwdFYKKlQq
— TaraBull (@TaraBull808) May 18, 2025
Eyewitnesses Sydney Neidell and Lily Katz described the scene to the Associated Press. They had been watching the sunset when the ship struck the bridge. Katz said they noticed someone hanging from the mast after it broke.
Using their phone’s zoom, they saw the person suspended by a harness for around 15 minutes before rescue teams pulled them to safety. The pair also saw two people being carried away from the ship on stretchers.
Historic Bridge, Veteran Ship
The Brooklyn Bridge, opened in 1883, is one of New York City’s busiest crossings. More than 100,000 vehicles and tens of thousands of pedestrians use the bridge daily, according to city data. Its design includes a central span of nearly 1,600 feet, held up by two massive stone towers. The pedestrian walkway has long been a major draw for tourists.
The Cuauhtémoc, nearly 300 feet long, has served as a training vessel since it first sailed in 1982. Each year, it embarks on a global journey at the end of the academic term to help finalize training for future Mexican Navy officers.
This year’s voyage began on April 6 from Acapulco and was expected to last 254 days. The itinerary included stops in 15 countries and 22 ports, including cities in Europe, the Caribbean, and North America.
The incident has now halted the vessel’s international tour. Naval officials have not yet confirmed whether the ship will return to Mexico or remain in the U.S. while investigations and repairs take place.
