NTSB Deploys Specialized Team After Mexican Navy Ship Strikes Brooklyn Bridge

The National Transportation Safety Board announced on Sunday that it is deploying a specialized team to investigate the collision of a Mexican Navy sailing ship with the Brooklyn Bridge. The incident, which occurred on Saturday evening, resulted in the tragic deaths of at least two people aboard the vessel.

The U.S. agency responsible for investigating significant transportation accidents did not provide immediate details regarding its specialized team. However, it assured that more information would be released shortly.

Details of the Collision

New York City Mayor Eric Adams provided updates on the situation through social media, stating that the Mexican Navy tall ship Cuauhtémoc experienced a power loss before crashing into the historic bridge. According to Mayor Adams, “Of the 277 individuals on board, 19 sustained injuries, with two in critical condition and two sadly reported deceased.”

He confirmed that preliminary investigations indicated no damage to the bridge itself, and that it has reopened to the public. Mayor Adams expressed gratitude for the quick response of first responders, emphasizing that the situation could have been much worse.

Reactions from Officials

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed her condolences in a statement regarding the fatalities, saying, “We extend our deepest sympathies and support to the families of the deceased.” She also noted that local authorities are providing assistance to those injured in the accident.

The Cuauhtémoc is an academy training vessel for the Mexican Navy. While en route for an instructional cruise titled “Bicentennial of the Consolidation of Independence at Sea,” the ship was reportedly maneuvering out of the port when the collision occurred. Investigations are currently underway to ascertain the cause of the incident.

A Dramatic Collision

Eyewitness accounts and videos captured the dramatic moment when the ship, flying a large Mexican flag, swiftly reversed toward the Brooklyn Bridge. The three masts of the vessel struck the bridge directly, snapping sequentially as it continued its path. Fortunately, no individuals were injured on the bridge during the incident, although traffic was halted momentarily.

Witnesses reported seeing sailors on the damaged masts, and fortunately, none fell into the water amidst the chaos.

Ship Details and Background

The Cuauhtémoc measures approximately 297 feet in length and 40 feet in width, with its main mast soaring 160 feet high. Since its maiden voyage in 1982, the vessel has been a training platform for naval cadets. This year’s cruise began on April 6 from Acapulco, Mexico, with a planned route covering 22 ports across 15 nations over the course of 254 days, with 170 of those days spent at sea.

The ship’s visit to New York City commenced on May 13, welcoming visitors to explore its decks. Investigating officials have stated that the ship was expected to head toward Iceland at the time of the incident.

Investigation Underway

As of now, the specific circumstances that led the ship to deviate from its intended path remain unclear. The New York Police Department’s Special Operations Chief, Wilson Aramboles, noted that preliminary reports suggest the ship’s pilot lost power due to a mechanical issue. However, officials have urged caution, as details are still being verified.

A tugboat was nearby during the mishap, and investigators are assessing its role in the events surrounding the collision.

The Brooklyn Bridge: A Historical Landmark

The Brooklyn Bridge, opened in 1883, features a main span of nearly 1,600 feet supported by two robust masonry towers. Daily, it accommodates over 100,000 vehicles and an estimated 32,000 pedestrians, making it a vital transportation artery in New York City. Its pedestrian walkway is renowned as a major tourist attraction.

Traffic resumed following the collision after the bridge was inspected and deemed safe for crossing.

Ongoing Developments

As midnight approached after the incident, recovery efforts continued. The Cuauhtémoc was gradually towed up the East River, eventually passing under the Manhattan Bridge before docking at a designated pier.

This incident raises numerous questions about maritime safety protocols, especially regarding large vessels navigating near major city landmarks. The investigation conducted by the NTSB will be critical in determining the factors leading to this tragic event and will likely prompt discussions on improving safety measures in similar future scenarios.

As more updates become available, officials are committed to keeping the public informed about the ongoing investigations and their findings. The impact of this incident will be closely monitored as the community comes to terms with the consequences of this unfortunate collision.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.