Late Saturday night, the Mexican Navy's ARM Cuauhtémoc plunged into a grave situation as it collided with the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City. The ship was carrying 277 individuals, primarily naval cadets, on a goodwill tour around the world. The unfortunate event resulted in the deaths of two crew members, including cadet América Yamileth Sánchez Hernández, 20, and sailor Adal Jair Maldonado Marcos, 23, while at least 22 others sustained injuries.
The collapse occurred as the ship veered off its path and hit the bridge's structure, causing considerable damage to its masts and rigging. Eyewitness accounts and social media footage captured the dreadful moments, leaving many in shock. Rodolfo Hernández, uncle of the deceased cadet, shared his grief over the sudden loss, highlighting a poignant moment just a day prior when she shared cheerful photos from Central Park.
Serious questions linger regarding the circumstances of this accident. Maritime experts speculate that the ship, measuring 300 feet, may have had its propellers running in reverse. New York Senator Charles Schumer confirmed that the ship neglected to utilize a tugboat before the crash, although a tugboat was seen responding afterward in circulating videos.
In light of the tragedy, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced an investigation involving the Mexican Navy, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to determine the underlying cause, whether it relates to mechanical failure, the tugboat's role, or human error.
