The helicopter, operated by New York Helicopters, took off from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport at 2:59 PM local time and was reported to have crashed approximately 18 minutes later. Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud noise akin to thunder and witnessing parts of the helicopter falling before it plummeted into the water. Emergency response teams were deployed immediately, with rescue boats launched within minutes of the first calls reporting the incident.
Despite prompt life-saving efforts, initial reports confirmed that four of the victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while two others were transported to a nearby hospital where they were later declared deceased. The family, who resided in Barcelona, Spain, was reportedly enjoying a vacation in New York City when the incident unfolded. Siemens, the company where Agustín and Mercè were employed, issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the tragic loss.
The crash of the Bell 206 helicopter is being investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board following confirmation from the Federal Aviation Administration. This latest incident adds to a grim history of fatal tourist helicopter crashes in New York, raising ongoing concerns over the safety of such aerial tours. As investigations continue, grief envelops the families and communities affected by this heart-wrenching tragedy.
Despite prompt life-saving efforts, initial reports confirmed that four of the victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while two others were transported to a nearby hospital where they were later declared deceased. The family, who resided in Barcelona, Spain, was reportedly enjoying a vacation in New York City when the incident unfolded. Siemens, the company where Agustín and Mercè were employed, issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the tragic loss.
The crash of the Bell 206 helicopter is being investigated by the National Transportation Safety Board following confirmation from the Federal Aviation Administration. This latest incident adds to a grim history of fatal tourist helicopter crashes in New York, raising ongoing concerns over the safety of such aerial tours. As investigations continue, grief envelops the families and communities affected by this heart-wrenching tragedy.
