A tragic helicopter crash occurred near Manhattan on Thursday, killing all six people on board. The helicopter plunged into the Hudson River between Lower Manhattan and Jersey City, prompting an immediate emergency response on both riverbanks.
According to the Associated Press (AP), the crash took place around 3:15 PM near Pier 40, close to West Houston Street and West Street. The helicopter, identified as a Bell 206 model, reportedly flipped upon impact and was soon submerged in the river, as seen in multiple videos shared on social media.
New York City Mayor Eric Adams confirmed that the victims included a family from Spain—three children and two adults along with the pilot. “All six bodies have been recovered. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the bereaved families,” said Mayor Adams.
Emergency responders declared four people dead at the scene, while the remaining two succumbed to injuries after being taken to the hospital, according to the New York Police Department.
The NYPD also issued a public advisory on social media platform X, warning of potential traffic delays near West Side Highway and Spring Street due to the presence of emergency vehicles.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump reacted to the tragedy on Truth Social, calling the accident “horrific.” He wrote, “The crash in the Hudson River is heartbreaking. It appears that all six people, including the pilot, two adults, and three children, have died. The video of the incident is deeply disturbing. Our prayers are with the families of the victims.”
Trump also mentioned that U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy and his team are actively looking into the incident. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the crash.
