What began as a goodwill tour ended in tragedy on Saturday night, May 17, 2025, when the Mexican Navy's training vessel Cuauhtémoc collided with the Brooklyn Bridge. In an instant, what should have been an exciting 250+ day tour to 15 countries turned into a devastating maritime disaster that shocked New York City and the international community.
We extend our condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in this tragedy, including 20-year-old cadet América Yamileth Sánchez Hernández and 23-year-old sailor Adal Jair Maldonado Marcos. We also extend our best wishes for full and fast recoveries to everyone injured.
Two people died and many were hurt in this tragic accident.
What Happened During the CUAUHTÉMOC Brooklyn Bridge Collision
During the week of May 13, 2025, the Cuauhtémoc was docked at the South Street Seaport Museum for the public's enjoyment.
The Cuauhtémoc, a majestic three-masted barque built in Spain in 1981 and later acquired by the Mexican Navy, has been an important training vessel for decades. This 297-foot sailing ship, with its impressive 25,500 square feet of sail area and 147-foot height, has won the prestigious Tall Ships' Races twice and visited ports worldwide as Mexico's "Knight of the Seas" and goodwill ambassador.
On Saturday evening, May 17, 2025, the ship left New York’s Pier 17 and crashed into the Brooklyn Bridge shortly before 8:30 p.m.
According to initial reports, the tall ship was navigating the East River when it lost control while approaching the Brooklyn Bridge. The vessel's three masts collided with the underside of the bridge structure, and each mast snapped.
First responders from the NYPD, FDNY, and Coast Guard quickly converged on the scene to rescue injured sailors and secure the area.
What Caused the Accident?
Conflicting statements about the cause of the crash were issued immediately following the Cuauhtémoc Brooklyn Bridge collision. Some theories about possible causes of the accident include:
- The ship may have lost power, which caused the captain to lose control
- The ship’s propellers may have been running in reverse
- The ship may have failed to use tugboat assistance
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating.
How Hofmann & Schweitzer Can Support Cuauhtémoc Victims
Maritime accidents like the Cuauhtémoc collision fall under specialized areas of law that differ significantly from typical personal injury cases. This unique legal framework makes proper representation essential for victims. Hofmann & Schweitzer has decades of experience handling complicated maritime claims, and we are prepared to help those directly impacted by the Cuauhtémoc Brooklyn Bridge accident.
If you were hurt or your loved one was killed in the Cuauhtémoc collision, taking prompt action can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Our legal team provides comprehensive support throughout the entire claims process, beginning with a free, no-obligation consultation to evaluate your case and explain your legal options.
Our maritime injury attorneys conduct thorough investigations of maritime disasters like the Cuauhtémoc collision, working with maritime experts, accident reconstructionists, and medical professionals to establish liability and document the full extent of injuries.
We handle all communications with insurance companies, government entities, and opposing counsel, protecting you from tactics designed to undervalue your claim or shift blame to innocent parties. Our experience with maritime insurers gives us insight into their strategies and how to counter them effectively.
Our maritime injury lawyers prepare every case as if it will go to trial, even while pursuing fair settlement negotiations. This thorough preparation often results in more favorable settlement offers while ensuring we're ready if litigation becomes necessary to secure fair compensation.
Throughout the process, we provide compassionate, client-centered representation, understanding that beyond the legal issues, you and your family are coping with a traumatic experience that has upended your lives. Our team remains accessible to answer questions and address concerns at every stage of your case.
If you have any questions about your legal rights, please contact us online or call us directly at 800.362.9329 to schedule your free consultation today.
If you were hurt or lost a loved one in this accident, understanding your legal rights is the first step toward recovery. At Hofmann & Schweitzer, our New York City maritime injury lawyers understand the unique challenges facing victims of the Cuauhtémoc disaster. With decades of experience handling maritime injury cases, we can provide compassionate legal guidance during this difficult time.
