Mexican Navy Sailing Ship Crashes Into Brooklyn Bridge, Dozens Injured

Mexican Navy Ship Rams Brooklyn Bridge, Multiple Injuries Reported

A Mexican Navy sailing vessel collided with the Brooklyn Bridge this morning, causing significant disruption and injuries to dozens onboard. Emergency services are currently on the scene managing the situation and providing medical assistance.

Chaos Erupts as Tall Ship Strikes Iconic Landmark

The incident occurred at approximately 9:45 AM EST. The tall ship, identified as the ARM Cuauhtémoc, a training vessel of the Mexican Navy, struck one of the bridge's support pillars. Initial reports indicate a potential navigation error as the cause.

Multiple injuries have been confirmed. Early reports indicate at least 30 people sustained injuries, ranging from minor cuts and bruises to more serious fractures. All the injured were on board the ship.

Emergency Response in Full Swing

The New York City Fire Department (FDNY) and the New York Police Department (NYPD) responded immediately. Coast Guard vessels are also assisting with securing the area around the bridge.

Paramedics are triaging the injured on the scene. Patients requiring further medical attention are being transported to nearby hospitals, including New York-Presbyterian Lower Manhattan Hospital and Bellevue Hospital Center.

Details Emerge on the Vessel and Crew

The ARM Cuauhtémoc is a barque, a type of sailing vessel with at least three masts. It is used as a training ship for Mexican Naval Academy cadets.

The ship had a crew of approximately 250 onboard. Most of the crew members are young cadets undergoing training.

The Mexican Consulate in New York has been notified. They are coordinating with authorities to provide assistance to the crew and their families.

Brooklyn Bridge Operations Disrupted

The Brooklyn Bridge has been temporarily closed to all traffic – vehicular and pedestrian. Engineers are assessing the structural integrity of the bridge following the impact.

Significant traffic delays are expected throughout the city. Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes.

The closure is affecting subway lines that cross the East River. Check for service updates before traveling.

Eyewitness Accounts Detail the Shocking Collision

"I was walking across the bridge when I heard a loud bang," said Sarah Miller, a tourist from Chicago. "The ship just seemed to veer off course and hit the pillar."

Another witness, David Chen, who works in a nearby office building, stated, "It was a shocking sight. The ship was much larger than I expected, and the impact was forceful."

Investigation Launched into the Cause of the Accident

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched a full investigation into the incident. They will be examining factors such as weather conditions, navigational equipment, and crew training.

The U.S. Coast Guard is also conducting a parallel investigation. Their focus will be on maritime safety regulations and potential violations.

Damage Assessment Underway

Structural engineers are carefully examining the Brooklyn Bridge. They are looking for any signs of damage that could compromise its stability.

The New York City Department of Transportation (NYCDOT) is assisting with the assessment. Their priority is to ensure the safety of the bridge before it is reopened to the public.

Underwater inspections are also being conducted. Divers are checking the submerged sections of the bridge for any hidden damage.

Next Steps and Ongoing Developments

The ARM Cuauhtémoc is currently being secured. Tugboats are preparing to tow the vessel to a nearby port for inspection and repairs.

Authorities are working to reopen the Brooklyn Bridge as soon as it is deemed safe. Updates will be provided regularly to the public.

The Mexican Navy has issued a statement expressing their regret over the incident. They have pledged full cooperation with the investigation.