Massive sailing vessel collides with Brooklyn Bridge in dramatic crash, injuring several people
A massive Mexican flag-adorned naval training ship collided with the iconic Brooklyn Bridge in New York City on Saturday night, causing chaos and sending passengers tumbling into the East River. The dramatic incident, which occurred just before 8:30 p.m., was captured in harrowing videos shared on social media, showing the ship’s mast striking the underside of the bridge as onlookers screamed in shock.
The vessel involved in the crash was the Cuauhtémoc, a 150-foot-tall Mexican Navy training ship. According to officials from the New York Police Department (NYPD), the ship sustained significant damage as it collided with the bridge, with debris and flags falling into the water below. Fortunately, all 277 individuals onboard have been safely evacuated, with 35 reported injuries and 16 in critical condition.
Following the collision, the ship veered off course and narrowly missed crashing into a nearby pier before coming to a halt. The NYPD Harbor Unit swiftly responded to the scene to assist with rescue operations and ensure the safety of all passengers and crew members.
In a statement posted on social media, the Mexican Navy acknowledged the mishap during a sailing maneuver with the Cuauhtémoc in New York. The Navy reassured the public that authorities are assessing the status of personnel and equipment, emphasizing their commitment to safety and transparency in operations.
Despite the intense collision, there is no visible damage to the Brooklyn Bridge itself, as confirmed by the NYPD. However, as the investigation into the incident continues, authorities have advised the public to avoid the area surrounding the Brooklyn Bridge, South Street Seaport in Manhattan, and Dumbo in Brooklyn due to heavy traffic and emergency vehicle presence.
New York Attorney General Letitia James offered her prayers for those involved in the ship collision, urging New Yorkers to heed local guidance and allow first responders to carry out their duties. The Cuauhtémoc, a vessel with a storied history that includes two victories in the Tall Ships’ Races, was built in Bilbao, Spain in 1981.
As the situation unfolds, authorities are focused on ensuring the well-being of everyone impacted by the collision and conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. The resilience and swift response of emergency personnel have been instrumental in managing the aftermath of this unexpected and alarming event.
