The Mexican Navy ship, Cuauhtémoc, hit into the Brooklyn Bridge roughly before 9pm on Saturday, May 17th. At the time of publication, multiple injuries were reported and an investigation began.
As of Sunday morning, news broke that the ship carrying 277 passengers lost power when it struck the bridge. There have been two fatalities and nearly 20 injuries. New York City Mayor Eric Adams confirmed that the bridge did not sustain any damages and is open to the public.
A Mexican Navy ship hits the Brooklyn Bridge
Footage has begun circulating on social media of the frightening incident on Saturday evening.
“We were standing under the bridge and we all started running,” visitor Elijah West told The Post. “Then I saw people hanging from the sails. Police boats came around fast – about five minutes later.”
The Mexican Navy released a statement regarding the incident:
During the sailing maneuver of the Cuauhtémoc sailboat in New York, a mishap occurred with the Brooklyn Bridge, causing damage to the training ship, preventing the continuation of the training cruise for the time being. The status of personnel and equipment is being reviewed by naval and local authorities, who are providing support.The Navy reaffirms its commitment to personnel safety, transparency in its operations, and excellent training for future officers of the Mexican Navy.
What New Yorkers need to know
Those around the area on Saturday evening encountered road delays. Mayor Eric Adams retweeted an emergency response note that read, “Expect traffic delays, road closures & emergency personnel near New Dock Street & Water Street, Brooklyn. Use alternate routes.”
Those traveling by ferry also experienced a change. According to a statement from the NYC Ferry, service to the DUMBO landing was temporarily suspended, and ferries on the East River and South Brooklyn routes skipped DUMBO Landing.
New York City Emergency Management began its investigation shortly after the accident. A statement on Twitter read,
NYCEM is responding to an incident at the base of the Brooklyn Bridge. The situation is developing and details are not confirmed at this time. Emergency alerts, including recommended actions, will be issued through @NotifyNYC as updates become available.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for additional updates.