Helicopter Crash Near Manhattan: Six Dead, Including Pilot and Three Children

A devastating helicopter crash occurred near Manhattan on Thursday afternoon, resulting in the deaths of six individuals, including the pilot and three children. The incident took place when a Bell 206 helicopter plunged nose-down into the Hudson River between Lower Manhattan and Jersey City.

Crash Location and Time

According to the New York City Fire Department, the helicopter crashed around 3:15 PM near Pier 40, at the intersection of West Houston Street and West Street. Emergency responders rushed to the scene following reports of the crash.

The New York Police Department (NYPD) shared an alert on X (formerly Twitter), warning commuters about possible traffic jams around West Side Highway and Spring Street due to rescue operations in progress.

Helicopter Completely Submerged

Footage shared on social media showed the helicopter flipped upside down and fully submerged in the river. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the helicopter spiral out of control before crashing.

At the time of the incident, the weather was cloudy with mild winds of 10 to 15 mph. Light rainfall was also expected in the area, according to reports.

Investigation Underway

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that it is working closely with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to investigate the cause of the crash.

New York Mayor Eric Adams confirmed that among the victims were the pilot and five members of a Spanish family, making the incident even more tragic for the community.

Eyewitness Accounts Paint a Grim Picture

Several witnesses described the terrifying scene. 

Bruce Waller said he saw the helicopter crashing mid-air after losing control.

Denny Horbiak, who lives in Jersey City, recalled hearing a loud noise and seeing the aircraft crash into the river in pieces.

Another bystander, Leslie Camacho, noted that the helicopter was spinning erratically and emitting smoke before it hit the water.

Rescue and Recovery Operations Continue

Authorities are continuing rescue and recovery operations at the site, and further details are expected as investigations progress.