New Details Emerge in Tragic Ship Collision with Brooklyn Bridge
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A recent report sheds light on the final moments before a Mexican Navy tall ship collided with the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, leading to the tragic deaths of two crew members. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released a preliminary report detailing the sequence of events that transpired on May 17, when the Mexican naval tall ship, the ARM Cuauhtémoc BE 01, was leaving New York waters en route to Iceland.
The Cuauhtémoc, carrying 277 crew members and cadets, was on a ceremonial visit to New York, symbolizing the culmination of cadet training. After a stop in Cozumel, Mexico, the ship arrived in Manhattan on May 13, and following a brief port call, it was scheduled to depart for Iceland from Brooklyn for refuelling. However, tragedy struck as the ship attempted to navigate its way out of the harbour.
According to the NTSB report, as the Cuauhtémoc was being assisted by a tugboat to depart from Pier 17, it was observed moving backwards at an increased speed. Despite no reported issues with the ship’s propulsion and steering systems, a series of commands were given by the docking pilot, eventually leading to the tragic collision with the Brooklyn Bridge.
Around 8:24 p.m., the ship’s three masts collided with the underside of the bridge while moving in reverse at a speed of 5.9 knots. The impact claimed the lives of two crew members and injured 19 others. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, providing assistance and transporting the injured to nearby hospitals.
Following the incident, the NTSB conducted interviews with crew members and tested the pilots and tugboat captain for alcohol and drugs, with results returning negative. The investigation is ongoing, focusing on various factors including the ship’s propulsion system, crew experience, and operating protocols. The report highlighted that Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the two crew members and extended sympathies to their families.
Earlier reports suggested that the collision was a result of a mechanical malfunction and power loss onboard the Cuauhtémoc. However, the NTSB has yet to determine the exact cause of the accident, keeping a keen eye on all possible contributing factors. The ship has since been taken to a local shipyard for repairs and further examination.
The tragic collision serves as a sombre reminder of the risks involved in maritime operations and the importance of stringent safety protocols to prevent such incidents. As the investigation continues, authorities and stakeholders will work to determine the root cause of the accident and implement measures to enhance safety standards in the future.
The community at large mourns the loss of the crew members and extends heartfelt condolences to their loved ones. The aftermath of this devastating event underscores the critical need for vigilance and adherence to safety procedures in all maritime activities to avoid similar tragedies in the future.