In a heartbreaking incident on Thursday, a tourist helicopter crashed into the Hudson River, claiming the lives of Agustin Escobar, a respected executive at Siemens, his wife Merce Camprubi Montal, and their three young children aged 4, 5, and 11 years old. The pilot, aged 36, also perished in this tragic accident. This devastating news has left the community in shock and mourning.
According to law enforcement sources, the victims have been identified as part of a family visiting from Barcelona, Spain. The Escobar family was aboard the helicopter that plunged into the river shortly after takeoff from the Wall Street Heliport. The flight, operated by New York Helicopters, had just begun its journey when it tragically ended in disaster.
Agustin Escobar held a significant position within Siemens, serving as an executive in the company's division focused on Spain and Southwest Europe since 2022. A press release from Siemens highlighted Escobar's contributions to the company, particularly in the realm of mobility and transport. Former head of Siemens in Spain, Miguel Ángel López, praised Escobar's leadership and the pivotal role he played in the organization’s success, stating, “With Agustín Escobar, we have the best possible successor to lead the company in Spain.”
The tragic helicopter crash occurred at approximately 3:17 p.m. off the coast of River Drive in Hoboken, New Jersey, just over 15 minutes after the aircraft had taken off. Officials reported that the helicopter reached the George Washington Bridge before making a sudden turn southward and crashing into the frigid waters of the Hudson River. The National Transportation Safety Board is currently conducting an investigation to determine the cause of this devastating incident.
As news of the crash spread, condolences poured in from various quarters, including New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who expressed his sympathies during a press briefing. “Our hearts go out to the family and those on board,” he stated, reflecting the profound sense of loss felt by the community. The helicopter, a Bell 206, had completed five flights earlier in the day before the tragic event occurred. When rescuers arrived, they found the helicopter upside-down in the 50-degree water.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks associated with air travel, even in tourist settings. The investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board aims to uncover the factors that led to this tragic accident, ensuring that such a heartbreaking event does not happen again in the future.
