Mexican Navy Ship Collides with Brooklyn Bridge, Injuries Reported

The Mexican Navy has responded to the incident involving one of its vessels colliding with the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City. The 270-foot-long ship, carrying 277 people, scraped the underside of the bridge, resulting in several passengers falling into the East River and multiple injuries. New York City Mayor Eric Adams reported that at least 19 individuals were in critical or serious condition, though earlier reports suggested higher numbers. The New York City Department of Transportation confirmed that the bridge sustained no significant structural damage.

The vessel involved, the Cuauhtémoc, is a training ship operated by the Mexican Navy. It was on a global annual tour, with plans to visit 22 ports in 15 countries, including Jamaica, Cuba, Iceland, and France. Social media videos showed the ship, flying a large Mexican flag and with three illuminated masts, colliding with the bridge's underside while traffic continued to flow above. All three masts were destroyed, and the vessel continued to navigate briefly before stopping.

The Mexican Navy, in a statement, confirmed that both naval authorities and local officials were assessing the condition of personnel and equipment, and providing necessary support. The Navy reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of its personnel, maintaining transparency in its operations, and providing high-quality training for future Mexican Navy officers. The incident highlights the importance of rigorous safety protocols and thorough training for naval personnel, especially during international tours. The Mexican Navy's prompt response and commitment to transparency are crucial in addressing the concerns of both the public and the international community.

Traffic on the Brooklyn Bridge was temporarily halted in both directions but was later restored. The incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in maritime operations and the need for continuous improvement in safety measures and training protocols. The Mexican Navy's actions demonstrate a proactive approach to addressing the incident, ensuring the well-being of its personnel, and maintaining public trust.