Authorities in New York have released preliminary findings on the May 17 collision when the Mexican Navy training ship Cuauhtémoc struck the Brooklyn Bridge, causing two deaths and multiple injuries.
The 277-member crew vessel lost power due to a mechanical malfunction while leaving a Manhattan pier. Drifting uncontrollably in reverse, its 147-foot masts collided with the bridge, toppling and causing chaos aboard.
Nineteen people were injured, two critically, and two crew members tragically fell from the masts and died.
Mayor Eric Adams confirmed no bridge damage and praised first responders. Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed condolences and said injured crew are receiving medical care with local support.
The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the cause. Witnesses described a terrifying scene of crew struggling after impact.
Both U.S. and Mexican authorities pledge transparency as questions about maritime safety during diplomatic missions arise.
