Helicopter crashes into the Hudson River near Manhattan: six death after the crash
Tragedy strikes the Hudson River as a helicopter crashes, leaving five dead and one survivor. Authorities and safety teams work swiftly to uncover the cause.
On April 10, 2025, at approximately 3:17 p.m. local time, a Bell 206 helicopter crashed into the Hudson River near the West Side Expressway and Spring Street in Manhattan and Associated Press sources reported that six people lost their lives in the accident.
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Spanish family killed in helicopter crash in NYC
The victims include the pilot, and 2 adults and 3 children. NBC New York reported that the adults were a business executive and an adult relative of the children
While details are scarce, New York Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, stated that their identities were to remain private until family members are notified.
NYC Mayor Eric Adams speaks about the helicopter crash
Mayor Eric Adams confirmed at a news conference that 3 adults and 3 children had sadly passed away after the accident. He stated that the crash is currently under investigation and teams are ready to assist in everything they can.
While previously, it was reported that only 5 of the 6 were dead, Adams confirmed the last casualty at the news conference. Four were pronounced dead at the scene, while the other two were taken to the hospital but ultimately "succumbed to their injuries" NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch told reporters.
Six confirmed dead in helicopter crash in the Hudson River, pilot still missing
Rescue teams in New York and New Jersey quickly responded to the incident. Five bodies were recovered, including those of the family's adults and children, while the pilot has yet to be located. Authorities confirmed that at least six people died, and the authorities have not yet provided details on how many people may have been on board or their condition.
The New York Police Department (NYPD) and the New York Fire Department (FDNY) participated in the rescue efforts. The Coast Guard created a safety zone and suspended traffic in the affected area. An eyewitness reported seeing the helicopter crash and hearing its impact with the water.
NTSB and FAA investigate fatal Hudson River helicopter crash
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash. This incident is reminiscent of the tragic 2018 incident when a helicopter crashed into the East River, resulting in five deaths.
Helicopter sightseeing flights over the Hudson River are popular in New York. Since 1977, there have been multiple accidents, this being one of the most serious since the one that occurred in 2019.
Helicopter down in the Hudson River: challenging rescue mission in murky and cold waters
A helicopter is currently floating in the border area between New Jersey and the Hudson River, near the Holland Tunnel vents, close to Jersey City. Rescue teams, including FDNY Marine Units, are on-site, but authorities warn that the situation is extremely complex due to the murky waters and lack of visibility. Aviation analyst Peter Goelz stated that the river's sediment-filled water and cold temperatures make the search incredibly difficult.
Additionally, the absence of on-call divers has delayed the rescue efforts. Meanwhile, New York authorities have issued warnings about potential traffic delays in the area due to the ongoing emergency operation.