A Mexican Navy training ship collided with the Brooklyn Bridge on Saturday night, resulting in significant damage and injuries. The incident occurred as the ship, identified as the Cuauhtemoc, attempted to pass under the iconic New York City landmark. Eyewitnesses reported that the vessel, adorned with festive lights on its rigging, crashed into the bridge, causing all three of its masts to snap off and crash into the East River.
Emergency response teams were deployed swiftly to the scene, where at least 22 individuals aboard the ship sustained injuries. Among them, three individuals were reported to have critical injuries. Various media outlets suggested that some sailors were in the rigging during the accident; however, the Mexican Navy confirmed that no one fell into the water, and therefore, no rescue operation was necessary.
Victims were transported to local hospitals for treatment, with the New York Post highlighting the urgency of the response. At the time of the collision, approximately 200 people were reported to be aboard the Cuauhtemoc, a barque constructed in 1982, known for its impressive mast height of 48.2 meters (158 feet). The vessel was engaged in a training maneuver when the accident occurred, causing significant disruption and damage.
The Mexican Navy released a statement acknowledging the incident, referring to it as a “mishap” and reiterating their commitment to ensuring the safety of their personnel. The Ministry of the Navy emphasized the importance of transparency in their operations and the excellence of training for future officers within the institution.
As investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident continue, the focus remains on the well-being of those affected and the implications for maritime safety in busy urban waterways. The collision serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with navigating large vessels near significant structures.
