The ship’s masts clipped the bridge, causing them to collapse. Nineteen people were injured in the incident, and two crew members tragically lost their lives.

In a briefing, NYPD Chief of Department Wilson Aramboles said the vessel had departed from a Manhattan pier but deviated from its intended course. Preliminary reports suggest the ship lost power due to a mechanical issue, which prevented it from properly steering away from the low-clearance structure.

With its masts too tall to safely clear the bridge, the vessel was reportedly attempting to reverse when the collision occurred.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams addressed the incident on social media, writing (via The Independent): “Earlier tonight, the Mexican Navy tall ship Cuauhtémoc lost power and crashed into the Brooklyn Bridge. Of the 277 on board, 19 sustained injuries, two remain in critical condition, and two others have sadly passed away.

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