Tragic Helicopter Crash in Hudson River Claims Six Lives, Including Family from Spain
In a tragic incident this afternoon, a sightseeing helicopter crashed into the Hudson River near Jersey City, resulting in the deaths of all six individuals onboard. The aircraft, a Bell 206 operated by New York Helicopter Tours, was carrying a family of five visiting from Spain—two adults and three children—along with the pilot. The crash occurred shortly after 3:00 p.m.
What We Know So Far About the Hudson River Helicopter Crash That Killed Six
Flight Details & Crash Timeline
The helicopter departed from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport and flew over Governors Island and the Statue of Liberty before heading north along Manhattan’s West Side. After reaching the George Washington Bridge, it turned south, following the New Jersey shoreline. At approximately 3:17 p.m., the aircraft suffered what witnesses described as a catastrophic failure and crashed near the Holland Tunnel ventilation tower in Jersey City.
Eyewitness Accounts
Witnesses reported hearing “strange noises” before the aircraft went down. One told ABC News they heard “five or six loud noises that sounded almost like gunshots.” Another witness said the crash sounded like “a sonic boom” and said the rotor appeared to separate mid-air before the aircraft broke apart.
Emergency Response
First responders from both New York and New Jersey arrived within minutes. Divers from the New York City Police Department (NYPD) and Fire Deparment (FDNY) entered the 50ºF-degree water to recover the victims. Four individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, and two others died after being transported to local hospitals.
Investigation Underway
The FAA and NTSB are investigating. Early signs point to mechanical failure. Per FlightAware this was the sixth flight of the day for the aircraft, registration numebr N216MH, and it traced a popular tourist route.
CONCLSUION
This a tragic accident and my thouhts and prayers go out to the loved ones of those impacted. Without make any premature conclusions, it is sobering to realize that traveling via helicopter is not the same as traveling by plane in terms of safety.