NEW YORK (TNND) — A tragic helicopter crash in New York City on Thursday, April 10, 2025, has claimed the lives of a family of five from Spain and their pilot. The victims have been identified as Agustín Escobar, 49, a senior executive at Siemens, his wife Mercè Camprubí Montal, and their three young children, ages 10, 8, and 4. They were visiting the city to celebrate their daughter Mercè's upcoming birthday on April 11.
The Bell 206 helicopter, operated by New York Helicopters, took off from the Wall Street heliport at precisely 2:59 p.m. and followed a popular sightseeing route. It initially flew south before turning north along the Manhattan skyline, reaching the George Washington Bridge, and then turning south again towards the New Jersey shoreline. Unfortunately, just minutes after takeoff, the helicopter lost control and crashed into the Hudson River near Hoboken.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams expressed his condolences, stating, "We are deeply saddened by the tragic helicopter crash in which Agustín Escobar and his family lost their lives. Our heartfelt condolences go out to all their loved ones." The mayor highlighted the family's visit as part of a normal tourist attraction experience, making the incident even more heartbreaking.
Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop added that Escobar was in the U.S. for business, and the family had flown in to enjoy a few days in New York City. He noted that the mother was also celebrating her 40th birthday during the trip. Fulop urged people to think about the family in light of the tragedy.
According to the New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch, the FDNY received notice of the crash at 3:17 p.m. First responders were able to rescue six people from the water, but four were pronounced dead at the scene. Tragically, two of the children later succumbed to their injuries at Jersey City Medical Center.
Eyewitness accounts describe a horrifying scene as the helicopter appeared to break apart midair before crashing into the river. Videos circulating on social media captured the aircraft tumbling through the air, with parts flying off before it hit the water. Witness Bruce Wall reported seeing the helicopter “falling apart,” while Dani Horbiak described hearing what sounded like “several gunshots in a row” before witnessing the helicopter splash into the river.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation into the crash. The NTSB is expected to provide updates on their findings soon. Initial reports suggest that the helicopter may have experienced a catastrophic mechanical failure, leading to the loss of control.
Michael Roth, CEO of New York Helicopter, expressed his devastation over the incident, stating, "I don't know anything about how this went down. The only thing I can tell you, we are devastated. My wife hasn't stopped crying since this afternoon." Roth noted that the helicopter had been in operation for 28 years and had a prior incident in 2015, which was attributed to a faulty part.
Agustín Escobar had an impressive career with Siemens, where he worked for over 27 years, most recently serving as the global CEO for rail infrastructure at Siemens Mobility. His wife, Mercè, was also an executive in the energy technology sector with Siemens Energy. The family was well-known in Spain, with strong ties to Barcelona, where they resided. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez expressed his sorrow, calling the crash “an unimaginable tragedy.”
As the investigation unfolds, many are left grappling with the loss of a family celebrated for their achievements and contributions. The tragedy has reignited discussions about helicopter safety in New York City, a place where aerial tours are a popular attraction. Since 1977, at least 38 people have died in helicopter accidents in the city, raising concerns about the safety of such flights.
In addition to the Escobar family, the pilot, who has not yet been identified, also lost his life in the crash. The details surrounding the cause of the crash remain unclear, but experts are examining the wreckage and considering factors such as potential mechanical failures or pilot error.
As recovery efforts continue, officials are working diligently to expedite the release of the victims' bodies back to Spain. The family’s loss has resonated deeply, with condolences pouring in from various leaders and community members, reflecting the profound impact of this tragedy.
As New York City mourns this heartbreaking incident, the focus now shifts to understanding what went wrong and ensuring that such a tragedy does not occur again in the future.
