Six dead after helicopter crashes into New York's Hudson River
New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch added that the identities of the victims will not be released until all families are notified.
A tragic helicopter crash in New York’s Hudson River has left six people dead, including three children.
Authorities confirmed that the victims were part of a family visiting from Spain, and the pilot of the helicopter also lost his life in the crash.
The incident took place on Thursday when the helicopter, a Bell 206 model, lost control shortly after turning near the George Washington Bridge.
The aircraft, operated by New York Helicopters, had taken off from the Downtown Skyport on the southern tip of Manhattan at 14:59 local time.
Just 18 minutes later, the first emergency calls came in reporting the crash.
"We offer our deepest condolences to the families affected by this heartbreaking tragedy," said New York City Mayor Eric Adams in a press statement.
New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch added that the identities of the victims will not be released until all families are notified.
Video footage of the incident showed the helicopter flipping upside down as it plummeted into the river. Eyewitnesses reported seeing parts of the helicopter falling from the sky.
"I looked outside my window. I saw a few people running toward the water, and some people were acting pretty normal. So I was like, oh, it might not be anything. Then I started to hear all the sirens," said Jersey City resident Jenn Lynk.
Rescue teams responded swiftly after the crash, with emergency boats deployed to the scene.
"Swimmers were in the water shortly after the call," said New York Fire Commissioner Robert Tucker.
Despite the immediate efforts of rescuers, including life-saving measures, four of the victims were declared dead at the scene, while two others were pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
The crash site is located near Manhattan’s west side, a popular area known for its shops, restaurants, and its proximity to the New York University campus.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has confirmed that the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will lead the investigation into the crash, which is still ongoing.
The helicopter, a Bell 206, is frequently used for sightseeing tours, as well as by television stations and police departments. The NTSB has not yet determined the cause of the crash, though the investigation is expected to take some time.
This crash adds to a tragic history of deadly helicopter accidents in New York City.
In 2018, another tourist helicopter crashed into the East River, resulting in the deaths of five passengers.
Only the pilot survived.
In 2009, a collision between a helicopter and a private plane over the Hudson River killed nine people, including Italian tourists.
As the investigation continues, authorities are reminding the public to remain patient as they work to understand the cause of this devastating incident.
The families of the victims are being supported during this difficult time, with more information expected to be released once notifications are made.
