Brooklyn Bridge crash: Heart-stopping video shows Mexico Navy sailors hanging on for life

A terrifying video has surfaced showing Mexican sailors holding on for their lives after their ship, the Cuauhtémoc, struck the underside of the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City.


The dramatic footage captures crew members clinging to tangled rigging and collapsed masts after the ship lost power and crashed while reversing away from Pier 17 on the night of Saturday, May 17, 2025, around 8:26 p.m. local time (EDT).


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The Cuauhtémoc is a 297-foot-long Mexican navy tall ship carrying 277 people as part of a global goodwill tour. As it reversed, it reportedly lost power, leaving it unable to steer. Its three towering masts smashed into the bridge, splintering on impact. Many sailors were trapped high up in the rigging, narrowly avoiding plunging into the East River.


Two sailors lost their lives, and 22 people were injured, including at least two critically. First responders from the FDNY, NYPD Harbor Unit, and U.S. Coast Guard were quick to respond, providing medical aid and securing the vessel. The injured were taken to Bellevue Hospital.


Despite the impact, the Brooklyn Bridge sustained no major structural damage. Traffic was briefly halted but resumed shortly after inspections. The Cuauhtémoc suffered severe rigging and mast damage and was towed to Pier 36 for further evaluation.


New York Mayor Eric Adams confirmed the vessel lost steering due to a mechanical failure. An investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Mexican Navy is ongoing.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed her condolences and pledged support for the victims' families.