Background on the Incident and Key Participants
On Tuesday, Secretary of the Navy Raymundo Pedro Morales Ángeles confirmed that the Mexican Naval Schoolship “Cuauhtémoc” was under the command of a specialized pilot from New York’s port during the recent tragic accident in New York City. The collision resulted in the unfortunate loss of two Mexican Navy cadets.
Who is Raymundo Pedro Morales Ángeles?
Raymundo Pedro Morales Ángeles is the current Secretary of the Mexican Navy, responsible for overseeing the operations and management of the Mexican naval forces. His role in this incident involves providing crucial information regarding the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Who is Claudia Sheinbaum?
Claudia Sheinbaum is the President of Mexico. In this context, she played a supportive role by ensuring that the families of the affected cadets were kept informed and collaborating with New York authorities for the transport of injured cadets to hospitals.
Details of the Collision and Investigation
According to Morales Ángeles, the collision is being investigated by three entities: the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) of the United States, the U.S. Coast Guard, and insurance adjusters. The investigation aims to determine how the accident occurred and identify any contributing factors.
The secretary explained that, as per international regulations, local pilots are responsible for directing maneuvers and selecting appropriate means in specific ports. In this case, the pilot had limited time to ensure safe maneuvering due to the short distance between the ship and the bridge.
Human Impact of the Collision
Four cadets were injured in the collision, with two subsequently succumbing to their injuries. The deceased cadets were América Yamileth Sánchez Hernández from Xalapa, Veracruz, and Javier Maldonado Marcos from Oaxaca.
Government Response and Collaboration
President Sheinbaum emphasized the academic and military excellence of the two cadets who lost their lives. She extended her condolences and support to their families and the Mexican Navy.
Sheinbaum Pardo highlighted that the investigation is being conducted by U.S. authorities with full collaboration from the Mexican Navy and the ship’s insurer. She urged patience, as the results are expected within approximately 30 days.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who was in control of the “Cuauhtémoc” during the collision? A specialized pilot from New York’s port, as per international regulations.
- What agencies are investigating the collision? The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) of the United States, the U.S. Coast Guard, and insurance adjusters.
- How many cadets were injured, and how many lost their lives? Four cadets were injured, and two cadets—América Yamileth Sánchez Hernández and Javier Maldonado Marcos—tragically lost their lives.
- Who is responsible for the investigation? U.S. authorities, with full collaboration from the Mexican Navy and the ship’s insurer.
- When are the investigation results expected? The results are anticipated to be available within approximately 30 days.
