Introduction
The ARM Cuauhtémoc, a tall ship of the Mexican Navy, serves as a floating classroom for naval cadets, symbolizing Mexico’s maritime heritage and commitment to international goodwill. Its 2025 voyage, titled “Consolidation of Mexican Independence 2025,” was part of a commemorative journey marking the bicentennial of Mexico’s naval independence. Tragically, this mission was marred by a fatal collision with the Brooklyn Bridge, raising questions about navigational safety and operational protocols.(Wikipedia)
The Vessel: ARM Cuauhtémoc
Commissioned in 1982, the ARM Cuauhtémoc is a barque-rigged tall ship named after the last Aztec emperor. Designed by naval engineer Juan José Alonso Verástegui and constructed in Bilbao, Spain, the vessel has logged over 400,000 nautical miles, participating in numerous international sailing events and serving as a symbol of Mexico’s naval tradition. (Wikipedia)
The 2025 Training Voyage
Departing from Acapulco on April 4, 2025, the Cuauhtémoc embarked on a 170-day journey to visit 22 ports across 15 countries, including stops in Kingston, Havana, and Cozumel. The voyage aimed to provide practical training for cadets and promote diplomatic relations. The ship docked at South Street Seaport in New York City from May 13 to 17 before the planned departure towards Iceland. (Wikipedia, Wikipedia)
The Collision Incident
At approximately 8:26 p.m. on May 17, 2025, shortly after departing from South Street Seaport, the Cuauhtémoc experienced a loss of power and steering control. Strong northeast winds and tidal currents pushed the vessel backward into the Brooklyn Bridge. The ship’s three masts, each approximately 147 feet tall, exceeded the bridge’s vertical clearance of 127 feet, leading to their collapse upon impact. Emergency responders from the FDNY, NYPD Harbor Unit, and the U.S. Coast Guard swiftly arrived, rescuing crew members and transporting the injured to medical facilities. (Wikipedia, Wikipedia, Wikipedia)
Casualties and Victims
The collision resulted in the deaths of two cadets:(New York Post)
- Cadet América Yamilet Sánchez, 20, an award-winning swimmer from Xalapa, Veracruz. She had recently shared a photo in front of the ship hours before the incident. (New York Post)
- Cadet Adal Jair Marcos, known as “Tyson” among peers, hailed from Salina Cruz, Oaxaca, and was recognized for his extensive travels. (New York Post)
In addition to the fatalities, at least 19 individuals sustained injuries, with several in critical condition. (Wikipedia)
Emergency Response and Aftermath
Emergency services established dual command posts on both sides of the bridge, facilitating rapid medical attention and evacuation. The Brooklyn Bridge, despite the impact, sustained no major structural damage and was reopened to traffic by 10:30 p.m. The Cuauhtémoc was held at dock for assessments by Mexican and U.S. authorities. (Wikipedia, People.com)
Investigations and Safety Implications
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) initiated an investigation into the incident, focusing on mechanical failures and navigational decisions. The Mexican Navy pledged full transparency and support for the victims’ families. The collision has prompted discussions on maritime safety protocols, especially concerning tall ships navigating under bridges with limited clearance. (The Guardian, Wikipedia)
Conclusion
The tragic collision of the ARM Cuauhtémoc with the Brooklyn Bridge underscores the complexities of maritime navigation in urban environments. As investigations continue, the incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of rigorous safety measures and international cooperation in naval operations.(Wikipedia)
References
The Guardian. (2025, May 18). Mexican navy ship hits Brooklyn Bridge during promotional tour. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/may/18/mexican-navy-ship-hits-brooklyn-bridge-during-promotional-tour
New York Post. (2025, May 18). First victim of Brooklyn Bridge crash ID’d as América Yamilet Sánchez. New York Post. https://nypost.com/2025/05/18/us-news/first-victim-of-brooklyn-bridge-crash-idd-as-america-yamilet-sanchez/
People. (2025, May 18). Ship that hit Brooklyn Bridge was on annual transcontinental journey for cadet training. People Magazine. https://people.com/ship-hit-brooklyn-bridge-was-on-annual-transcontinental-journey-cadet-training-11737172
Wikipedia contributors. (2025). Cuauhtémoc Brooklyn Bridge collision. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cuauht%C3%A9moc_Brooklyn_Bridge_collision
Wikipedia contributors. (2025). ARM Cuauhtémoc (BE-01). Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ARM_Cuauht%C3%A9moc
Wikipedia contributors. (2025). Brooklyn Bridge. Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brooklyn_Bridge
By: Donte Nelson
