Mexican Navy Training Ship Collides with New York's Brooklyn Bridge
The Mexican Navy training vessel, "Cuauhtemoc," struck the iconic Brooklyn Bridge in New York. The collision occurred when the top of one of the ship's three masts hit the bridge, causing partial collapse of the mast. Preliminary reports suggest the ship may have lost power moments before the incident. The New York Fire Department responded to reports of injuries, though details on casualties were not immediately available.
Unpacked:
Preliminary reports indicate the vessel lost power before the collision, leaving it unable to maneuver and leading to the mast striking the bridge. The exact cause of the power loss and subsequent collision is under investigation by authorities, including the NTSB.
Yes, two crew members died and at least 17 others were injured, with multiple people in critical condition. Emergency responders transported the injured to nearby medical facilities. No one on the bridge or in the water was reported harmed.
Despite the significant impact and damage to the ship's masts, the Brooklyn Bridge itself did not sustain any major structural damage. All lanes were closed briefly for safety inspections but reopened later that evening.
The Cuauhtemoc is a Mexican Navy training vessel and a symbol of national pride. It was on a promotional tour, recently hosting New Yorkers for tours aboard the ship, and was scheduled to sail to Iceland before the incident.