Mexican Navy Tall Ship Slams into Brooklyn Bridge, Toppling Masts and Injuring Crew

A festive maritime visit turned into a terrifying accident Saturday night when the Mexican Navy tall ship Cuauhtémoc collided with the Brooklyn Bridge, toppling one of its towering 147-foot masts and seriously injuring multiple crew members.

The vessel — a majestic training ship crewed by 277 personnel, primarily cadets — was passing under the iconic bridge around 9 p.m. when one of its masts struck the bridge’s road deck with devastating force, fire officials and sources confirmed.

The impact caused the mast to snap and crash onto the deck below, creating a horrifying scene as crew members scrambled for safety. Authorities say a number of sailors were thrown into the East River during the collision, triggering an urgent search and rescue operation by NYPD and FDNY marine units.

Several crew members sustained serious injuries, and emergency responders transported them to nearby hospitals for treatment. The extent of all injuries remains unknown at this time.

The Cuauhtémoc, known worldwide for its ceremonial visits and striking white sails, had arrived in New York as part of a goodwill tour. The ship had participated in international tall ship events and was scheduled to dock for public tours and cultural celebrations.

Officials have not yet released details on what caused the collision or whether the ship misjudged the clearance beneath the bridge. An investigation is underway.

The Brooklyn Bridge sustained visible damage, and authorities temporarily shut down traffic to assess structural integrity and ensure public safety.

The incident stunned onlookers, many of whom had gathered to admire the ship as it entered New York Harbor in full regalia.