Introduction and Key Players
On May 17, the Mexican Navy’s training ship Cuauhtémoc collided with the Brooklyn Bridge, causing significant damage and injuries. Brian Young, leading the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation, stated that the inquiry would examine potential motor failure and the role of a tugboat assisting the vessel.
Salvatore R. Mercogliano, a maritime historian at Campbell University, suggested that the accident’s cause was likely motor failure. He explained that without the motor malfunction, the ship might have veered toward the bridge but not collided at full speed. The failure caused the ship to crash into the bridge, and it’s unclear if the tugboat could have prevented the incident.
Investigation Focus and Timeline
The NTSB investigation will focus on three main aspects: the crew’s actions, the ship’s condition, and environmental factors such as weather, wind, currents, and tidal conditions. Michael Graham, an NTSB board member, outlined these areas of interest.
The NTSB expects to release a preliminary report within 30 days, despite comprehensive investigations typically taking between 12 and 24 months. As of now, they await permission from Mexican authorities to access the vessel.
Public Assistance and Video Evidence
Investigators are requesting public assistance in gathering more videos of the incident. They have not yet determined if the Mexican Navy ship had onboard data recording devices.
Accident Details and Aftermath
The accident occurred as the Cuauhtémoc departed Pier 17 in the East River, accompanied by a tugboat from McAllister Towing. With three 44.8-meter masts, the ship struck the lower part of the iconic 142-year-old bridge, causing partial collapse.
The collision resulted in two fatalities—a cadet and a mariner—and injured around 20 people, two critically. President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico requested assistance from the U.S. Coast Guard to determine the cause, whether mechanical, related to tugboats, or human error.
Mayor Eric Adams’ Account
New York City Mayor Eric Adams reported that the ship lost power before impacting the bridge. With winds of 10 knots from the west and a current of three knots pushing toward the bridge, the Cuauhtémoc left Pier 17 at 8:20 PM, accompanied by a tugboat.
As it exited the pier, the ship’s stern movement and speed increased to six knots. At 8:24 PM, the ship’s radio VHF emitted a distress call for nearby tugboats around the Brooklyn Bridge. The vessel’s mass then struck the bridge’s lower portion.
Investigation Scope and Collaboration
The investigation will examine the tugboat operator’s policies and procedures, guidelines, and responsibilities. Authorities have ruled out significant structural damage to the bridge.
Mexican Authorities’ Response
The Mexican Navy reported that 172 cadets, two naval school officers, a captain, and an officer arrived in Veracruz. Ninety-four crew members remain on board, working to stabilize masts and sails before moving the massive ship to a safer location.
Next Steps and Community Involvement
An initial work team has been surveying the area with CCTV and security cameras. Investigators have also sought public assistance in submitting videos of the collision.
Key Questions and Answers
- What caused the Cuauhtémoc to lose power? Mayor Eric Adams reported that the ship lost power before colliding with the bridge.
- What role did the tugboat play in the incident? Investigators will examine the tugboat operator’s policies and procedures to determine the tugboat’s role.
- When will the NTSB release a preliminary report? The NTSB expects to publish a preliminary report within 30 days.
- Are there any significant structural damages to the Brooklyn Bridge? Authorities have ruled out substantial structural damage to the bridge.
