Six Dead as Helicopter Crashes into Hudson River in New York

A sightseeing helicopter carrying a Spanish family and a pilot crashed into the Hudson River near lower Manhattan on Thursday, killing all six people on board, according to New York City officials.

Speaking at a news conference, Mayor Eric Adams confirmed that the Bell 206 helicopter had departed from the downtown Skyport around 3 p.m. and was carrying three adults and three children. The family, visiting from Spain, was accompanied by the pilot.

An investigation into the cause of the crash is underway.

New York Police Department Commissioner Jessica Tisch said four victims were declared dead at the scene, while the remaining two were taken to local hospitals but later died from their injuries. Identities are being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

The NYPD earlier confirmed the crash occurred near the West Side Highway and Spring Street and advised the public to expect traffic delays due to emergency response operations.

Witness footage showed the helicopter breaking apart in mid-air before plunging into the river. Search and rescue boats were seen combing the water under overcast skies.