Camilla Jessen
A mechanical failure is believed to have caused the vessel to veer off course.
A mechanical failure aboard the Mexican Navy tall ship Cuauhtémoc caused the vessel to lose power and strike the Brooklyn Bridge, resulting in two deaths and 19 injuries, New York authorities confirmed in an initial briefing on May 18.
The incident occurred on Saturday, May 17, when the Cuauhtémoc — carrying 277 people — was attempting to depart a Manhattan pier.
According to preliminary findings, the ship deviated from its intended course due to a power loss that rendered it unable to steer properly, causing its tall masts to clip the underside of the bridge.
The resulting collapse of the masts killed two crew members, who reportedly fell during the impact, and injured others on board — two of whom remain in critical condition.
According to NYPD Chief of Department Wilson Aramboles, the crew had realized the bridge clearance was too low and was attempting to reverse the vessel when the crash occurred.
The ship’s inability to respond to steering commands likely sealed its fate.
Bridge Undamaged, Investigation Underway
New York City Mayor Eric Adams confirmed the bridge was not structurally damaged in the crash and reopened shortly after inspections.
He expressed condolences in a post shared via The Independent:
Earlier tonight, the Mexican Navy tall ship Cuauhtémoc lost power and crashed into the Brooklyn Bridge. Of the 277 on board, 19 sustained injuries, two remain in critical condition, and two others have sadly passed away.
We are praying for everyone on board and their families, and we are grateful to our first responders whose quick actions helped prevent a worse outcome.
The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched a formal investigation to determine the exact chain of failures that led to the tragedy.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum also issued a statement (via Reuters) expressing sorrow over the deaths of two sailors:
We are deeply saddened by the loss of two crew members of the Cuauhtémoc who lost their lives in this unfortunate accident. Our sympathy and support go out to their families.
The Navy, supported by local authorities, is caring for the injured. Our ambassador to the U.S. and staff at the Consulate General in New York are offering their full support.
Sheinbaum thanked Mayor Adams and pledged continued cooperation with U.S. authorities as the investigation proceeds.
Eyewitness: “It Just Kept Coming Closer”
Flavia Moreira, an eyewitness near the bridge at the time, described the chaotic scene to CNN:
“It just kept coming closer and closer, and at some point, I was like, I don’t think that’s right… People started recording. Some of the staff were on the top of the boat, and when it hit the bridge, they were swinging around, holding on for dear life.”
The Cuauhtémoc, a historic tall ship used for both naval training and diplomatic voyages, is a symbol of Mexico’s maritime heritage.
Its involvement in such a tragic accident has cast a shadow over both the Mexican Navy and international naval communities.