Helicopter crashes in New York's Hudson river, 6 people killed

A tourist helicopter crashed into the Hudson River near Lower Manhattan, killing all six people onboard, including three children and a Spanish family visiting New York. The crash occurred around 3:15 PM, just minutes after takeoff.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams, in a press briefing, confirmed the fatalities: “At this time, all six victims have been removed from the water. Sadly, all six victims have been pronounced deceased. It’s a heartbreaking and tragic crash.”

Among those killed was Agustín Escobar, President and CEO of Siemens Spain, along with his wife and their three children. The pilot, who has not yet been officially named, was also among the deceased. Two of the victims were initially rushed to a hospital but later succumbed to their injuries.

Initial reports indicate that the Bell 206 helicopter, operated by New York Helicopter Tours, had departed from a heliport in downtown Manhattan at around 3:00 PM. The flight followed the usual tourist route up the Hudson River. Still, upon reaching the George Washington Bridge, the aircraft turned south and crashed upside down into the river near Lower Manhattan.

New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed that the helicopter was quickly submerged after the crash. Emergency responders, divers, and rescue boats were immediately deployed, but the wreckage offered little chance of survival.

US President Donald Trump reacted to the tragedy on his social media platform Truth, writing: “Terrible helicopter crash in the Hudson River. Looks like six people, the pilot, two adults, and three children, are no longer with us. The footage of the accident is horrendous. God bless the families and friends of the victims.”