A ship carrying 200 people has collided with the Brooklyn Bridge as it was passing beneath the iconic structure, igniting a rescue operation.
Jaw-dropping footage posted online shows the moment a Mexican Navy ship’s 147-foot mast collided with the bridge just before 9pm on Friday night.
A search and rescue operation has been launched to pull people from the cold water of the East River.
It is understood at least two people are in critical condition.
Victims are being taken to the Brooklyn Navy Yard. Those who have suffered injuries are been transported to local hospitals.
The Coast Guard confirmed to DailyMail.com emergency efforts are currently underway.
Shocked onlookers could be seen gathering on the nearby pier watching the horrifying moment unfold.
‘That sh*t’s about to crash,’ one terrified witness exclaimed as the boat, bearing a large Mexican flag, was seconds away from disaster.
‘Oh sh*t!’ he screamed as people flocked away from the pier when the boat collided with the bridge, causing the mast to plummet onto the deck and sending passengers into the water.
The vessel was seen in horrifying footage colliding with Brooklyn Bridge just before 9pm on Friday night
The ship’s mast was seen snapping backwards as the boat continued to move forward
In an X statement, the Mexican Navy explained in Spanish: ‘During the sailing maneuver of the Cuauhtémoc sailboat in New York, a mishap occurred with the Brooklyn Bridge, causing damage to the training ship, preventing the continuation of the training cruise for the time being.
‘The status of personnel and equipment is being reviewed by naval and local authorities, who are providing support.
‘The Navy reaffirms its commitment to personnel safety, transparency in its operations, and excellent training for future officers of the Mexican Navy.’
The boat sustained damage to its mast but continued to pass under the iconic bridge.
This is a breaking news story. More to come.
