Background and Relevance
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) of the United States has initiated an investigation to determine the causes behind the collision between the Mexican vessel “Cuauhtémoc” and the Brooklyn Bridge in New York, which occurred on Saturday, resulting in the tragic death of two cadets.
The “Cuauhtémoc” is a Mexican Navy training ship, named after the Aztec leader Cuauhtémoc. It serves as a platform for cadets to gain practical experience in navigation and maritime operations. The ship’s recent incident has drawn attention due to its significance in Mexico’s naval training programs and the loss of young lives.
Investigation Details
The NTSB team, a multidisciplinary group of experts in nautical operations, marine engineering, bridge engineering, and survival factors, is awaiting permission from the Mexican government to board the ship and commence their investigation. This will include interviews with the crew members.
Accident Timeline
- At 8:24 PM (EDT) on May 17, 2025, approximately 45 seconds after departing Pier 17 in Manhattan, the “Cuauhtémoc” collided with the Brooklyn Bridge.
- During this five-minute period, the Mexican crew transmitted three distress calls via radio, with the first call issued 45 seconds prior to impact.
- The accident occurred while the vessel was attempting to leave the dock, causing damage to its three masts.
- At 8:24 PM, the ship’s stern increased its speed to 6 knots. At 8:24, a VHF radio transmission was sent requesting assistance from nearby tugboats in the vicinity of the Brooklyn Bridge.
Meteorological Conditions
According to the preliminary weather report at the time, conditions included dust, westward winds of approximately 10 knots, and a current of about 0.3 knots towards the bridge.
NTSB’s Approach
During a press conference, NTSB member Michael Graham emphasized that a preliminary report will be available within 30 days. However, a comprehensive investigation could take between 12 to 24 months.
“We will not draw conclusions, speculate, or determine the probable cause while we are on-site. The information provided today is preliminary and subject to change throughout the investigation,” stated Michael Graham, representing the NTSB during the initial update.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the purpose of the NTSB investigation? The NTSB aims to determine the causes of the collision between the “Cuauhtémoc” and the Brooklyn Bridge.
- Who is part of the NTSB investigation team? The team consists of experts in nautical operations, marine engineering, bridge engineering, and survival factors.
- When will the preliminary report be available? The NTSB expects to release a preliminary report within 30 days.
- How long might a comprehensive investigation take? A thorough investigation could take between 12 to 24 months.
- What were the weather conditions at the time of the incident? There was dust, westward winds of around 10 knots, and a current of approximately 0.3 knots towards the bridge.
