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Family Honors Victims of Hudson River Helicopter Crash
Mourners gathered at the Hudson River to remember the victims of the recent New York City helicopter crash. The brother of Merce Camprubi Montal, who perished in the accident along with her family and the pilot, cast flowers into the river on Saturday in a poignant tribute to those lost in the Hudson River tragedy.
In the immediate aftermath of the floral tribute at the crash site, Joan Camprubi and Mayor Eric Adams addressed members of the media.
Camprubi stated, “They departed together. They departed without suffering.”
Mayor Eric Adams added, “We grieve the loss of Agustín, Merce, and their three beloved children, Victor, Mercedes, and Augustine. Our hearts are devastated.”
City Mourns with Spanish Community
Mayor Adams conveyed the city’s solidarity, stating, “8.5 million New Yorkers wish to express to the bereaved family and the Spanish community our deepest condolences. This symbolic gesture acknowledges that while words cannot restore their loved ones, New York stands united with the family in this time of sorrow. Their grief is our grief.”
Family Requests Privacy and Plans Repatriation
The grieving family has requested privacy as they continue to mourn their loss. Camprubi stated their immediate priority is to repatriate the remains of their loved ones to Spain for burial.
He also expressed gratitude for the widespread support received from institutions in Spain, Catalonia, the United States, and specifically Siemens, employers of Merce and Agustín.
Details of the Fatal Helicopter Crash
The Bell 206 helicopter involved in the Hudson River crash on Thursday afternoon disintegrated mid-air and crashed into the waterway with a loud explosion. The incident claimed the lives of all six individuals aboard, including a Spanish family of five and the pilot.
Among the deceased were Agustín Escobar and Merce Camprubi Montal, a married couple originally from Spain, whose deaths were confirmed by the Spanish Foreign Ministry along with their three children.
Authorities identified the pilot as Sean Johnson, 36, as the third adult fatality. The aircraft was operated by New York Helicopters, according to officials involved in the recovery efforts of the wreckage and debris from the Hudson River.
Investigation into Helicopter Crash Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is spearheading the investigation into the cause of the accident, which is currently undetermined.
Aviation analyst Jeff Guzzetti, speaking on NBC’s “TODAY” show, suggested that preliminary assessments indicate weather was unlikely a primary factor, despite reported wind gusts. Investigators are reportedly examining potential mechanical malfunctions as a possible cause for the helicopter crash.