On Saturday evening, May 17th, the New York Fire Department and Coast Guard officials reported that a 270-foot long Mexican naval training ship carrying 277 people collided with the bottom of the Brooklyn Bridge, causing passengers to fall into the water.
The Coast Guard stated that 20 people were injured, with rescue operations still underway to retrieve individuals from the water. Fire department officials reported that among the injured, three are in critical condition and 17 others sustained serious injuries. They confirmed that all personnel on board the ship have been accounted for.
Subsequently, according to CNN, New York City Mayor Eric Adams stated that out of the 19 injured individuals, 4 are in critical condition.
Videos circulating on social media depicted the moment around 8:30 pm Eastern Time when the mast of the ship struck the Brooklyn Bridge, prompting screams from passengers and onlookers nearby. Following the collision, passengers plunged into the murky water, and rescue operations were immediately initiated.
Officials from the New York Police Department informed Fox News that the 150-foot high Mexican naval training ship named “Cuauhtémoc” collided with the base of the Brooklyn Bridge structure.
Video footage uploaded online showed a large sailboat flying the Mexican flag with its three masts hitting the bridge’s base while vehicles were traversing the bridge. Despite all three masts being damaged, the sailboat continued its voyage. (Watch the video here)
The police department of New York reported that the bridge did not sustain any significant damage.
In a Spanish-language post on X channel, the Mexican Navy stated: “During departure operations in New York, the sailboat Cuauhtémoc was involved in an accident with the Brooklyn Bridge, resulting in damage to the training ship, temporarily halting training cruises.”
The post further added: “The Navy and local authorities are assessing the condition of personnel and supplies and providing support.”
“I pray for everyone on board the ship that collided with the Brooklyn Bridge tonight,” wrote New York Attorney General Letitia James in a post on X, “New Yorkers should follow local guidance while our first responders are on the scene.”
The New York Police Department advised local residents to avoid the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan South Street Seaport, and Brooklyn Dumbo area. Authorities on X channel stated, “Expect traffic congestion in the surrounding areas, along with a large number of emergency response vehicles.”