A large cargo ship collided with two ferries in the Port of Santos, Brazil, triggering a chaotic scene that sent passengers into the water and prompted an immediate rescue effort by nearby witnesses. Video captured the moment of impact, showing the massive vessel striking the ferries and forcing several people to jump overboard to avoid being crushed or trapped.

As the situation unfolded, bystanders on nearby docks and vessels reacted quickly, diving into the water with life preservers and assisting those struggling to stay afloat. Witnesses were seen swimming toward victims and pulling them to safety, demonstrating a rapid civilian response before emergency crews arrived.

The Port of Santos, the busiest port in Latin America, handles a high volume of maritime traffic, making navigational safety a critical concern. While the exact cause of the collision remains under investigation, authorities are expected to examine vessel speed, communication between crews, and adherence to harbor traffic controls.

Emergency responders later secured the area and accounted for passengers and crew members from the affected ferries. Initial reports indicated that injuries were limited, largely due to the swift actions of those on scene who helped prevent drownings in the immediate aftermath of the crash.

The incident highlights both the risks associated with dense maritime traffic and the life-saving impact of rapid bystander intervention. Officials are continuing to assess structural damage to the ferries and the cargo vessel while reviewing safety protocols to prevent similar accidents in one of the region’s most heavily trafficked ports.