Tragedy in Brooklyn: the Cuauhtémoc, the Mexican Vespucci, against the Bridge - VIDEO

On May 17, 2025, a tragic accident involved the training ship Cuauhtémoc of the Mexican Navy, which struck the famous Brooklyn Bridge in New York while passing through the East River. The ship, which had a crew of 277 people, mostly cadets, was participating in a training cruise. The accident resulted in the death of two sailors and injuries to 17 others, three of whom are in serious condition.

Details of the Cuauhtémoc Incident

The Cuauhtémoc, a 43-meter tall brig built in Spain in 1982, suddenly lost power while passing under the bridge. Due to an engine problem, the ship was carried by the current until it hit the bridge structure. The ship's three masts, which rise up to 43 meters, struck the bridge, which has a maximum height of 41 meters, causing the masts to detach and collapse violently onto the ship's deck.

Two sailors were at the top of the masts at the time of the incident and were seriously injured. Other crew members were seen clinging to the damaged masts, while some were suspended in the air. The scene was filmed by numerous spectators, who watched the tragic event with great concern.

The Authorities' Response

Rescuers responded promptly, reaching the ship quickly thanks to emergency boats. Fortunately, no sailor fell into the water, but the injured were taken to the hospital, with the most serious cases immediately brought to medical facilities for urgent treatment.

The Mexican Navy promptly confirmed the incident, stating that an investigation has been launched to determine the causes of the failure that led to the collision. The commander of the Cuauhtémoc expressly declared the suspension of training activities and assured that the crew's safety is an absolute priority.

The Context of the Incident

The Cuauhtémoc, which serves as a training ship for Mexican Navy cadets, was participating in an international cruise, with stops including ports like Jamaica, Iceland, and Portugal. This voyage was part of the annual program that offers cadets important practical experience at sea. The ship was warmly welcomed upon its arrival in New York, where many people had watched the passage of the brig adorned with lights and flags.

This incident sparked a strong reaction among citizens and visitors present, who documented the moment the ship hit the bridge. Witnesses described scenes of panic and confusion, with many people running away terrified while some sailors struggled to hold on to the ship's masts.

Final Considerations

The Cuauhtémoc is one of the most representative ships of the Mexican Navy, and the incident at the Brooklyn Bridge represents a tragedy for the entire crew and the Mexican armed forces. Although the cause of the incident is not yet entirely clear, local authorities and the Mexican Navy are working together to ascertain the details and ensure that similar incidents do not occur in the future.

The ship, which suffered significant damage, has been temporarily immobilized in New York waters, but it is expected to be moved to Pier 36 for further investigation. The Mexican Navy has expressed its solidarity with the victims' families and reiterated its commitment to the safety and training of its personnel.