In a heartbreaking accident over the Hudson River in New York City, six lives were lost in a tourist helicopter crash. A family of five vacationing from Spain, along with the pilot, perished when their helicopter plunged upside down into the river on Thursday afternoon.
Details of the Tragedy
The victims were residents of Barcelona, Spain. The three children, aged four, five, and eleven, were among those who died. The helicopter, after departing at 2:59 p.m local time, was meant to offer a scenic tour, but within moments, things went catastrophically wrong.
The incident has left the city in shock, and Mayor Eric Adams expressed deep sorrow, extending heartfelt condolences to the grieving families. It’s a dark day for those visiting and familiar with the vibrant city skyline that day.
A Devastated Owner Shares His Thoughts
Michael Roth, 71, is the owner of the helicopter that met such a tragic fate. He spoke of his utter disbelief at the event. According to Roth, the pilot had indicated they would return to the helipad for more fuel but failed to reach it.
“He [the pilot] called in that he was landing and that he needed fuel,” Roth recounted. “But despite waiting for his arrival, 20 minutes passed with no sign of him.” The crushing reality left Roth and his company reeling. “The death of any child, indeed, any human, is an enormous calamity,” he lamented.
Unsolved Mysteries Surround the Crash
Questions about how such a tragedy could occur remain unanswered. While the company tries to come to terms with the incident, Roth shared his observations. “The main rotor blades weren’t on the helicopter,” Roth noted from a review of video footage. However, the cause remains speculative. “It might have been a bird strike or rotor blade failure. But honestly, I don’t know,” he added, sounding bewildered.
He issued a sobering reminder to those visiting New York City and considering such tours: “Machines, no matter how expertly maintained, can malfunction,” he expressed somberly. As a father and grandfather himself, the loss resonated deeply with him.
Witness Accounts and Rescue Efforts
The helicopter disaster left onlookers horrified. Witnesses recalled the helicopter splitting and crashing with a resounding noise as it entered the waterfront by Pier 40. Efforts by the New York Fire Department saw divers retrieving four individuals from the chilly waters, though tragically, two passed away from their injuries at the hospital.
The event has left a lasting mark on the community and attracted extensive investigation to prevent future tragedies. However, the empty seats at the dinner tables of those affected families will serve as a constant reminder of the day that celebrations turned to mourning.