Cuauhtémoc School Ship Collides with Brooklyn Bridge in NYC

Brooklyn Bridge Ship Collision: Details on the Cuauhtémoc Incident

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Published in 05-17-2025

Mexican Navy's Cuauhtémoc Tall Ship Collides with Brooklyn Bridge in New York. The Mexican Navy's training vessel, ARM Cuauhtémoc, collided with the Brooklyn Bridge while navigating the East River. The ship's tallest mast struck the underside of the bridge, causing significant damage to the vessel and resulting in multiple injuries among the crew.

Details of the Collision:
At approximately 8:30 p.m. local time, the Cuauhtémoc was departing from Pier 17 when it encountered mechanical issues. The loss of power and strong currents led the ship to drift into the bridge, with its 147-foot mast impacting the structure. The collision caused the mast to snap, and debris fell onto the deck, injuring several crew members.

Investigation and Statements:
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has initiated an investigation into the collision. The Mexican Navy has pledged full cooperation and transparency throughout the inquiry. In a statement, the Navy emphasized its commitment to the safety of its personnel and the importance of identifying the factors that led to the accident.

Background on the Cuauhtémoc:
The Cuauhtémoc is a 297-foot-long sailing ship used for training naval cadets. Built in Spain over 40 years ago, it serves as a symbol of Mexico's maritime heritage. The vessel embarked on a global voyage on April 6, 2025, from Acapulco, with plans to visit 22 ports across 15 countries. The accident in New York has temporarily halted this journey.

Conclusion:
The collision between the Cuauhtémoc and the Brooklyn Bridge is a significant event, highlighting the challenges of navigating large sailing vessels in busy urban waterways. As investigations continue, both U.S. and Mexican authorities aim to understand the causes and prevent similar incidents in the future.

For more information, visit the official website of the Mexican Navy: SEMAR and the NYC Department of Transportation: NYC DOT.

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