Fatal Helicopter Crash in NYC Claims Five Lives
NEW YORK CITY — A helicopter carrying six people crashed into the Hudson River near Lower Manhattan on Thursday afternoon, resulting in five confirmed fatalities, according to law enforcement sources. Authorities are continuing the search for the sixth person who remains unaccounted for.
Details of the Crash
The aircraft, identified as a Bell 206 helicopter, was airborne for about 12 minutes before the crash. Onboard were a pilot, two adults, and three children—all believed to be tourists from Spain, according to sources familiar with the investigation.
Eyewitness Accounts Describe Sudden Plunge
Multiple witnesses reported seeing the helicopter fall rapidly from the sky.
- Dani Horbiack, who observed the incident from her apartment window, described hearing several loud noises before the aircraft descended.
- Another bystander, Eric Campoverde, said the helicopter fell at a 45-degree angle and created a large splash upon impact.
- A third witness recalled hearing what sounded like a sonic boom and seeing the helicopter break apart mid-air, with one rotor separating before hitting the water.
Emergency Response and Ongoing Search
Rescue crews arrived at the crash site, which was located closer to the New Jersey shoreline of the Hudson River. The helicopter was found upside-down in approximately 50-degree water, adding urgency to the recovery efforts.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed the helicopter model and is assisting with the investigation. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is also expected to lead a full inquiry into the cause of the crash.
