In New York City, near Manhattan, six people were killed in a helicopter crash when the aircraft plunged into the Hudson River. Officials reported that the accident occurred on Thursday at 3:17 PM local time, and the helicopter broke apart mid-air before crashing upside down into the river.
The New York City Fire Department (FDNY) stated that multiple emergency response teams were dispatched to the scene. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced that the helicopter involved in the accident was a single-engine, seven-seat Bell 206 model.
An official speaking to the Associated Press (AP) confirmed that all six people on board the helicopter had died.
Eyewitnesses Describe the Crash
Eyewitness Bruce Wall said the helicopter broke apart mid-air, with the tail and rotor separating. “The helicopter’s rotor was still spinning as it fell,” Wall reported.
Lesly Camacho, who works at a restaurant along the Hudson River, said the helicopter was spinning uncontrollably before hitting the water. “There was a lot of smoke, and the helicopter hit the water really hard,” Camacho added.
Investigation Launched into the Crash
Footage of the crash quickly spread on social media. Videos showed helicopter debris falling into the water and rescue teams arriving rapidly at the scene.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the FAA announced that a comprehensive investigation into the crash has been launched.
New York’s skies are known for their heavy touristic and business-related helicopter traffic. With many helipads in the area, such incidents continue to raise concerns in the city.
The crash is noted as the latest high-profile aviation accident in the U.S., following the January crash of an American Airlines plane in Washington, D.C., that claimed the lives of 67 people.
