Mexican Navy Ship Collides with Brooklyn Bridge, Killing 2 Sailors and Injuring Over 20 [Video]

A tragic accident unfolded Saturday night when the Mexican Navy’s training ship, Cuauhtémoc, struck the Brooklyn Bridge during a farewell maneuver, killing two sailors and injuring over 20 others. The vessel, part of a goodwill tour to the U.S., had been docked at Pier 17 for public visits and was en route to Iceland when disaster struck around 8:20 p.m.

Video

“The pilot lost power of the ship,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “Two crew members were on a mast and were injured in the collision.” Witness videos captured the harrowing moment as the ship, flying a massive Mexican flag, drifted backward into the bridge, its towering masts snapping against the span.

“We saw someone dangling…for at least 15 minutes before they were able to rescue them,” said eyewitness Lily Katz. Nineteen were initially reported injured, with Adams confirming Sunday that two later died and two more remained in critical condition. The Mexican Navy later updated the number of injuries to 22.

Emergency crews, including FDNY marine units, responded swiftly. “Once the marine units arrived… we knew immediately that we had a serious incident,” said FDNY Chief of Training Michael Meyers.

The cause remains under investigation. NYPD and the National Transportation Safety Board will conduct a full review. A mechanical failure is suspected.

Despite the dramatic impact, no structural damage to the Brooklyn Bridge was found. “There are no signs of structural damage,” NYC DOT confirmed.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of two crew members,” said Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum. “Our sympathy and support go out to their families.” The Cuauhtémoc has since been moved to Pier 36 under NYPD guard, as Mexico’s Navy promises full cooperation in the investigation.