A tragic accident unfolded on the evening of May 17, 2025, when a Mexican Navy training vessel collided with the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City, killing two sailors and injuring more than 20 others. The ship involved, the ARM Cuauhtémoc, is a 270-foot sail training vessel used for naval education and international goodwill missions.

What We Know

The Cuauhtémoc was departing Pier 17 in Lower Manhattan shortly after 8 p.m. as part of a scheduled tour when it struck the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. The ship’s towering masts — each around 147 feet high — slammed into the bridge’s underside, snapping violently upon impact. Eyewitness videos captured the chaos as parts of the mast collapsed, and crew members scrambled to safety.

Emergency crews, including the NYPD Harbor Unit and FDNY, rushed to the scene and assisted in evacuating injured personnel. Tragically, Lieutenant Commander Gabriela Cruz and Petty Officer Carlos Ramirez were pronounced dead. At least 22 others were treated for injuries.

How It Happened

Initial reports suggest the ship lost power shortly after setting sail, leaving the vessel without propulsion. Without engine control or maneuverability, the Cuauhtémoc drifted backward with the tide and current, slamming into the bridge before the crew could recover control or deploy emergency anchors. Authorities said the ship’s crew tried to avert the collision but had too little time.

Investigators from both U.S. and Mexican agencies are now looking into the precise cause of the power failure. Experts believe a combination of mechanical failure and strong water currents may have contributed to the ship’s uncontrollable drift.

Why It Happened

While a full investigation is still underway, officials suspect that the electrical or mechanical malfunction disrupted the ship’s ability to navigate. Weather conditions were relatively calm at the time, eliminating natural causes like high winds or rough seas. Questions are also being raised about the planning of the ship’s route and whether its height clearance was properly calculated before departure.

The Brooklyn Bridge, one of New York’s most recognizable landmarks, was temporarily closed for inspection. Fortunately, engineers found no structural damage, and the bridge has since reopened to traffic.

The Mexican government expressed deep sorrow over the loss. President Claudia Sheinbaum issued a public statement offering condolences to the victims’ families and praised the sailors for their service.

Next Steps

The ship remains docked in New York as investigators continue gathering evidence. Naval experts and city officials will likely review future safety protocols for visiting military vessels to avoid similar incidents.

The ARM Cuauhtémoc has visited over 200 ports across the world since being commissioned in 1982. This marks the most serious accident in its decades-long history.

As the investigation unfolds, both nations remain united in mourning — and in seeking answers.