Causes of the Mexican Navy Ship Crash: Why did it crash into the Brooklyn Bridge?

AMexican naval training vessel collided with the Brooklyn Bridge Saturday night in a tragic maritime incident that left two sailors dead and 17 others injured, including four in critical condition, according to New York City fire officials. The crash occurred around 20:30, when the ARM Cuauhtemoc, a tall ship carrying 277 crew , appeared to lose power and drifted uncontrollably into the iconic structure.

The towering 147-foot masts of the Cuauhtemoc, which had been on display in New York as part of a goodwill voyage, slammed violently into the bridge's roadbed. In a horrifying moment, two sailors were atop one of the masts when it struck the bridge. Both were killed instantly, sources confirmed.

The NYPD, citing a preliminary investigation, said that the ship "apparently lost power shortly before the collision," though they emphasized the cause remains under review.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has since launched a full investigation into the disaster, seeking to determine whether mechanical failure, operator error, or external factors played a role.

From goodwill mission to tragic catastrophe

The Cuauhtemoc is well-known in naval circles as a symbol of Mexican maritime pride and diplomacy. Commissioned in 1982, the tall ship is often used as a training platform for naval cadets and participates in international events promoting cultural exchange.

At the time of the incident, the vessel had just completed its visit to New York City and was en route to Iceland, continuing its international tour.

Instead of a smooth departure, chaos unfolded as the ship, under sail but with limited propulsion, lost navigational control in the East River.

Witnesses reported seeing the ship drifting stern-first before violently striking the Brooklyn Bridge, one of the city's most heavily trafficked and historic landmarks.

While structural engineers were called to the scene, the bridge remained structurally sound, and traffic was temporarily rerouted as emergency crews worked to rescue injured personnel and secure the area.

Investigation underway, questions remain

Federal investigators are now examining ship logs, communication records, engine performance data, and eyewitness statements to piece together what went wrong. The vessel's commanding officers are cooperating with U.S. authorities, and Mexican naval officials have expressed deep condolences to the families of the victims.

"We extend our deepest sympathies to those affected by this terrible event," said a statement from the Mexican Navy. "We are working closely with American officials and will fully the ongoing investigation."