A helicopter carrying a family of five tourists from Spain tragically crashed into the Hudson River, resulting in the death of all six individuals onboard, including the pilot, according to reports from New York officials. The family, identified as Agustín Escobar and his wife Mercè Camprubí Montal, appeared to be enjoying a sightseeing trip, accompanied by their three children aged four, five, and 11. This devastating news has prompted heartfelt condolences from Siemens, where both parents worked as executives, and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who expressed his sorrow over the incident.
Witnesses reported seeing the helicopter lose control shortly after departing from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport shortly after 3 PM local time. Eyewitness accounts describe the helicopter flipping over before plunging into the water near the George Washington Bridge. Rescue operations commenced immediately, but unfortunately, efforts for life-saving measures were unsuccessful, as four victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while two others died shortly after at a nearby hospital.
The crash remains under investigation, led by the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration. New York Helicopters operates the Bell 206 helicopter model involved in the crash, a type often utilized for sightseeing tours. The tragedy has raised concerns over helicopter safety and comes amidst other fatal helicopter accidents in the area. US President Donald Trump also expressed his condolences on a social media platform, promising more information to follow as the investigation proceeds.
