Mexican Navy ship hits Brooklyn Bridge, 2 dead, 19 injured

New Delhi, May 18: Two people were killed and 19 others injured after a tall Mexican Navy training ship collided with New York City's Brooklyn Bridge. Media reported that the incident occurred when the sailing vessel Cuauhtémoc, carrying 277 people, reportedly lost power while navigating under the bridge, forcing it to veer into a bridge abutment on the Brooklyn side. BBC reported that the ship, a well-known Mexican Navy training vessel, was on a goodwill visit to the United States and had been scheduled to dock as part of a public engagement tour.

The Cuauhtémoc is recognised for its towering masts, which are often manned by uniformed cadets during ceremonial entries into ports.

The vessel's height posed challenges as it attempted to pass under the bridge. When it lost power during the manoeuvre, it was unable to adjust course or reduce speed in time, leading to the collision. Parts of the masts struck the bridge structure and collapsed onto the deck, where some crew members were positioned at the time, reports international media.

Emergency services responded swiftly to the scene, treating multiple casualties. Three of the injured remain in critical condition. The Fire Department, police, and Coast Guard coordinated rescue and recovery efforts, while nearby areas including South Street Seaport and Dumbo were sealed off to the public amid a large emergency presence, said BBC.

Authorities confirmed that the Brooklyn Bridge itself did not sustain significant structural damage, though maritime traffic was briefly halted and bridge inspections were initiated.  The Cuauhtémoc, commissioned in 1982, is a regular participant in international naval events and is known for promoting cultural diplomacy. Its visit to New York had drawn quite a public interest, with large crowds expected along the waterfront.