An extensive investigation is currently underway following a tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of six individuals, including a family of Spanish tourists. The incident occurred when the helicopter plunged into the Hudson River in New York City on Thursday afternoon. Recovery teams have initiated efforts to retrieve wreckage from the river as authorities begin their inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The investigation is being spearheaded by the Jersey City Police Department, with significant involvement from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop confirmed to ABC News that the probe is in full swing, emphasizing the city's commitment to uncovering the details of this unfortunate event.
The victims of the crash have been identified as Agustin Escobar, a Siemens executive, his wife Merce Camprubi Montal, and their three children, aged 4, 5, and 11. Additionally, the pilot, who was 36 years old, also lost his life in the accident; however, his identity has not yet been disclosed.
The helicopter, operated by the New York Helicopter Tours company, fell into the Hudson River near Lower Manhattan at approximately 3:17 p.m. Officials reported that the aircraft had taken off from the Wall St. Heliport and was on its sixth flight of the day. It reached the George Washington Bridge before making a turn south and crashing into the river, as explained during a press briefing.
Rescue teams discovered the helicopter upside-down in the 50-degree waters of the Hudson River. Eyewitness accounts describe the helicopter entering the water inverted, lacking both a tail rotor and a main rotor blade. Video footage captured the chilling moment of the crash, showing the helicopter plunging into the river.
New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch informed reporters that four of the victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while two others succumbed to their injuries later. The Jersey City Medical Center, where the injured were taken, made every effort to save the victims, according to Mayor Fulop, who expressed deep concern for those affected.
Mayor of New York City, Eric Adams, conveyed heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims during the press briefing, stating, "Our hearts go out to the family and those on board." The incident has raised alarm about air traffic safety over the Hudson River, an issue that city officials hope will receive renewed attention.
Former President Donald Trump described the crash as "terrible" on his social media platform, expressing his shock at the footage of the incident. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez also weighed in, calling the news "devastating" and highlighting the loss of five family members, including three children, as "an unimaginable tragedy."
Eyewitnesses shared their harrowing experiences of witnessing the helicopter crash. Dani Horbiak recounted hearing loud noises resembling gunshots before seeing the helicopter fall from the sky. Another witness, Eric Campoverde, described the helicopter descending at a steep angle, creating a significant splash upon impact. Witnesses reported seeing parts of the helicopter break off during the descent, adding to the horrific nature of the incident.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on understanding the factors that led to this tragic accident and ensuring the safety of air travel in the future.
