On May 17, 2025, the Mexican Navy training vessel ARM Cuauhtémoc collided with the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City, injuring 19 people, including four in critical condition, city officials reported.
According to the Associated Press, the tall ship’s masts struck the bridge’s underside, causing the rigging to collapse and the vessel to drift toward the Manhattan shoreline, stopping near the Manhattan Bridge.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams praised emergency responders for preventing a worse outcome, noting that the 1883 bridge sustained no significant structural damage, per a press briefing. Videos on social media captured the collision, showing debris falling and crew members clinging to rigging.
Per Reuters, onlookers like Sydney Neidell and Lily Katz witnessed a person dangling in a harness for 15 minutes before rescue. Two individuals were evacuated on stretchers via smaller boats.
JUST IN: 🇺🇸 Ship collides with Brooklyn Bridge in New York. pic.twitter.com/m3zpVHKhF9
— Remarks (@remarks) May 18, 2025ARM Cuauhtémoc’s Voyage
The ARM Cuauhtémoc, a Mexican Naval Academy training ship, was on an international goodwill voyage, flying Mexico’s flag, when the accident occurred, per the Mexican Navy’s X post. The Navy confirmed damage halted the ship’s schedule, and authorities are assessing crew and equipment conditions in coordination with NYC officials.
According to a statement, Mexico’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted consular support but did not confirm injuries among Mexican personnel.
CBS News reports that the cause, potentially a navigational error or mechanical failure, remains under investigation, with no conclusions yet. The Brooklyn Bridge, a 1,600-foot landmark handling over 100,000 vehicles and 32,000 pedestrians daily, is being monitored by engineers, per the NYC Department of Transportation.
As of May 18, the Cuauhtémoc remains moored near the Manhattan Bridge, surrounded by law enforcement and maritime officials. The incident underscores maritime safety challenges in busy urban waterways, with ongoing probes expected to clarify contributing factors.
Last updated: May 18, 2025
