Identities of Cadets Who Died in Brooklyn Bridge Naval Ship Crash Confirmed

Two young sailors, América Yamilet Sánchez and Adal Jair Marcos, tragically lost their lives in a catastrophic incident involving the Mexican Navy training vessel, Cuauhtémoc, which collided with the Brooklyn Bridge. Mexican authorities confirmed their identities on Sunday following the loss of power that precipitated the accident. The vessel was making preparations to depart for Reykjavik, Iceland when it experienced a mechanical failure around 8:30 p.m. on Saturday evening, resulting in the ship drifting uncontrollably into the bridge. This unfortunate event not only claimed the lives of Sánchez and Marcos but also left 19 others injured.

Reports indicate that the Cuauhtémoc serves as a school ship for naval cadets, providing invaluable training and experience. The ship was carrying a total of 277 personnel, which included 147 cadets, at the time of the incident. Among the injured, 11 crew members were reported to be in delicate condition, while nine others were deemed stable, according to a statement from the Mexican Navy.

Sánchez, hailing from Veracruz, was nearing her 21st birthday, while 22-year-old Marcos was from Oaxaca. Both cadets had dedicated the past nine months to training aboard the vessel, embodying the commitment and aspirations associated with their futures in naval service. Amidst this tragic loss, reports from the Mexican news publication, Journada, highlighted Sánchez’s vibrant personality and her dreams. Just hours before the accident, she shared her anticipation for the journey ahead, unknowingly bidding farewell in her last communication.

In the wake of this disaster, demands for answers have emerged from families and community members. María del Rosario Hernández Jacome, Sánchez’s great aunt, has publicly called for justice, citing concerns regarding possible negligence by both the Mexican Navy and U.S. authorities involved in the accident. She emphasized the need for accountability, urging that the circumstances surrounding the incident be thoroughly investigated.

The Cuauhtémoc remains docked at Pier 36 in Manhattan as inquiries into the accident continue. As the affected families seek closure, the broader implications of this incident highlight the critical importance of maritime safety measures and the responsibilities of training institutions in ensuring the well-being of their cadets during such voyages.