A heartbreaking incident unfolded on Thursday afternoon as a tour helicopter crashed into New York City’s Hudson River, claiming the lives of a family of five and their pilot.

 

This tragic event has left the community in shock and mourning.

 

The Victims: A Family of Five

 

 

The victims of this devastating crash have been identified as Agustín Escobar, his wife Merce Camprubi Montal, and their three children, aged four, five, and eleven.

 

The family had traveled from Barcelona to New York City for a sightseeing tour, marking what was supposed to be a joyful experience.

 

Tragically, their outing turned into a nightmare.

 

The Pilot and the Flight

 

The helicopter, operated by New York Helicopter, was piloted by a 36-year-old man whose name has not yet been released.

 

Reports indicate that the pilot had warned he needed to refuel shortly before the crash.

 

Eyewitnesses described seeing the helicopter “split in half” before plunging into the river near Pier 40, closer to the New Jersey side.

 

Timeline of the Flight

 

The helicopter took off from the Wall Street Heliport at approximately 3:15 PM.

 

Witnesses reported that the aircraft flew for about 16 minutes, making a circle near the Statue of Liberty before heading up the Hudson River.

 

Unfortunately, it was during this flight that disaster struck.

 

Eyewitness Accounts

 

 

Several eyewitnesses recounted the terrifying moments leading up to the crash.

 

One witness reported hearing a loud crash, initially mistaking it for thunder.

 

Others described seeing the helicopter flying erratically just before it fell into the water, with pieces of the aircraft breaking off mid-air.

 

Emergency Response Efforts

 

Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene, but despite their efforts, four individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, while two others were rushed to the hospital, where they later succumbed to their injuries.

 

The recovery operation continued late into the night, with crews working to pull the wreckage from the murky waters of the Hudson River.

 

Community Reaction

 

 

The news of the crash has sent shockwaves through the community.

 

Michael Roth, the owner of New York Helicopter, expressed his devastation over the loss.

 

“We’re all devastated. Every employee in our company is devastated,” Roth said.

 

Investigation Underway

 

Authorities have initiated an investigation into the crash.

 

The Jersey City Police Department is leading the investigation until officials from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) arrive.

 

As investigations continue, the focus remains on understanding the cause of this tragic incident.

 

Conclusion

 

 

This helicopter crash is a stark reminder of the risks associated with air travel, even in a city renowned for its helicopter tours.

 

The loss of Agustín Escobar, his wife, and their three children is a tragedy that will resonate deeply within their community and beyond.

 

Our hearts go out to the families affected by this heartbreaking event.

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