A Tragic Day in New York City: Helicopter Crash Claims Lives
In a heartbreaking turn of events on Thursday afternoon, a helicopter crash in the Hudson River near Lower Manhattan claimed the lives of five out of six individuals on board, leaving one person still missing. Among those on board were three children, according to sources close to the investigation. The tragic incident unfolded when the helicopter, carrying a pilot, two adults, and three children, crashed into the river, sending shockwaves through the bustling city of New York.
The ill-fated helicopter, identified as a Bell 206, had been in the air for approximately 12 minutes before the catastrophic crash. Eyewitnesses like Dani Horbiack recounted the harrowing moment when they saw the helicopter spiraling downward, describing it as a surreal and terrifying sight. “I heard five or six loud noises that sounded almost like gunshots in the sky and saw pieces fall off, then watched it fall into the river,” Horbiack shared, painting a vivid picture of the tragedy that unfolded before her eyes.
Amidst the chaos and confusion, other witnesses like Eric Campoverde and a bystander who likened the sound to a sonic boom, recounted the chilling moment when the helicopter plunged into the river at a sharp angle, sending ripples of fear throughout the area. The scene was further described by onlookers who saw the helicopter splitting in two and the rotor flying off, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake.
As emergency responders rushed to the scene, the helicopter was found upside-down in the frigid 50-degree water, near the New Jersey side of the river, according to sources familiar with the ongoing investigation. The chilling aftermath of the crash, with one witness reporting a broken propeller and another describing the rotor flying off, underscored the gravity of the situation as rescuers worked tirelessly to locate the missing individual and provide aid to the survivors.
Despite the valiant efforts of first responders and the swift response from authorities, the tragic helicopter crash serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of such incidents. As details continue to emerge and the investigation unfolds, the community remains in mourning for the lives lost and the families impacted by this devastating event.
As we await further updates on this developing story, our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their loved ones, and all those affected by this tragic helicopter crash in the heart of New York City. May their memories be cherished, and may we come together in solidarity to support one another during this difficult time.
ABC News’ Leah Sarnoff and Erin Murtha contributed to this report, providing valuable insights into the ongoing investigation and the aftermath of this heartbreaking incident. Let us stand together in unity and compassion as we navigate through this challenging moment in our shared history.
