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TRAGEDY ON THE HUDSON: Helicopter Tour Crash Kills Family and Pilot in New York City
A sightseeing helicopter carrying a family visiting from Spain crashed into the Hudson River in the New York City area on Thursday, resulting in the deaths of all on board, including the pilot. The aircraft plummeted into the waterway during what was intended to be an aerial tour of the city.
Eyewitness Accounts and Incident Details
Video evidence depicted the moment the helicopter violently descended into the river, seemingly after losing its rotor. Witnesses informed news sources of a loud noise preceding the crash, with one individual suggesting it sounded like engine failure just before the aircraft went down.
Continue below for further updates.
Official Statements on the Helicopter Incident
NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch informed reporters that the helicopter, identified as a Bell 206 model, departed from a downtown Manhattan helipad shortly before 3:00 p.m. The aircraft initially flew along the New York City side of the Hudson River.
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According to Commissioner Tisch, the pilot lost control of the helicopter at 3:08 p.m. after making a turn near the George Washington Bridge, intending to proceed along the New Jersey side of the river. Emergency services began receiving 911 calls at 3:17 p.m. as onlookers sought assistance.
“The helicopter impacted the water, we believe upside down… with the passenger compartment remaining partially visible above the surface,” Tisch explained.
Victims of the Crash
Six individuals were aboard the helicopter at the time of the accident: three adults and three children. Their identities have not been immediately released pending notification of next of kin.
City’s Response and Ongoing Investigation
New York City Mayor Eric Adams expressed his condolences during a press briefing Thursday evening.
“This event is recent and unfolding,” Mayor Adams stated. “The investigation is currently in progress, and we are keeping the families affected in our thoughts.”
Investigation Underway
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have both launched investigations to determine the cause of the fatal helicopter crash in the Hudson River.