Helicopter crash in NYC’s Hudson River kills pilot and Spanish family of five; investigation underway as recovery operations continue.

In Short

A helicopter crash in New York’s Hudson River killed five Spanish tourists and their pilot, with only a young boy rescued.

The incident marks the 32nd fatal helicopter accident in NYC since 1977, prompting an ongoing investigation.

A tragic helicopter crash occurred in New York City’s Hudson River, claiming the lives of a family of five Spanish tourists and their pilot.

The incident happened around 3:15 PM on Thursday, near Pier 40 and closer to the New Jersey shore, as witnesses described the helicopter appearing to ‘split in half’ before descending into the water.

Footage of the helicopter that crashed in the Hudson River in Manhattan, New York, flying erratically before crashing. pic.twitter.com/bGA51Y57pg

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The helicopter was reportedly carrying two adults and three children. Dramatic video footage captured the moment the aircraft sank, prompting emergency crews to respond swiftly.

Sonic boom

According to Flight Radar, the helicopter involved was identified as a N216MH – Bell 206L-4. Eyewitnesses recounted unsettling details, with one person recalling the crash sounding like a ‘sonic boom’ while others reported seeing the aircraft fly erratically just before impact.

Search and rescue operations are currently underway. Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop stated that local authorities are leading the investigation until the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) arrives.

The crash marks at least the 32nd fatal accident involving helicopters in New York City since 1977. The last significant incident was in 2018 when a helicopter crash in the East River resulted in five fatalities.