América Yamilet Sánchez dies in fatal Brooklyn boat accident
Fatal Brooklyn boat accident death of América Yamilet Sánchez – Obituary
A tragic maritime accident in New York claimed the life of América Yamilet Sánchez, a cadet from Veracruz, Mexico, after a Mexican Navy ship collided with the Brooklyn Bridge on Saturday evening. Authorities confirmed her identity following the crash, which also injured nearly two dozen others.
Sánchez was aboard the Cuauhtémoc, a tall training ship part of an international goodwill voyage, when it struck the bridge just before 8:30 p.m. Witnesses looked on in horror as the vessel lost power, veered off course, and rammed into the bridge’s underside, causing the ship’s three masts to break apart. Crew members were seen suspended in the air by harnesses, and two individuals, including Sánchez, lost their lives.
The ship, carrying approximately 277 people, was en route to refuel at the Brooklyn waterfront before departing for Iceland. A mechanical failure caused the vessel to drift uncontrollably into the historic 142-year-old bridge. Authorities stated that the Brooklyn Bridge itself sustained no structural damage and reopened soon after the collision.
Twenty-two sailors were reported injured, with eleven in critical condition. The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board has initiated a detailed investigation, deploying experts in nautical navigation, bridge structures, and safety systems. Their full findings could take months to release.
Following the incident, the Cuauhtémoc remains docked at Pier 36 while damage assessments continue. Originally scheduled to visit 22 ports across 15 countries, the vessel began its journey from Acapulco on April 6. It had been stationed in New York for public viewing until just days before the accident.
New York City officials, along with Mexico’s government, expressed condolences and offered support to those affected. Members of the local Mexican community have also gathered in solidarity to mourn and honor the fallen cadets.
